A violent scuffle erupted between police personnel and ABVP activists during a protest march to Swasthya Bhavan in the Salt Lake area, triggered by the alleged rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The protestors demanded the resignation of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who also serves as the state’s health and home minister.
Tensions escalated when the police erected barricades on several roads leading to Swasthya Bhavan, which the ABVP activists attempted to breach. "We only seek the resignation of the chief minister. The incident which happened at the hospital is unimaginable," stated a female ABVP member. The clash highlighted the growing frustration among activists and residents over the handling of the case.
The ongoing ceasework agitation by junior doctors, now entering its 12th day, has severely impacted healthcare services at state-run hospitals across West Bengal. The strike is a direct response to the alleged rape and murder, and it underscores the widespread discontent with the state’s health system.
Following a recent order from the Calcutta High Court, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken over the investigation from the Kolkata Police, aiming to ensure a more thorough and impartial inquiry into the tragic incident.