The Kolkata Police have registered a case against five women organizers of the “Reclaim the Night” protests under the Indian Penal Code and the National Highway Act. These protests were organized in response to the RG Kar rape and murder case, demanding justice for the victim.
In addition to filing charges, the police have issued notices to the organizers, summoning them to appear before investigators within the next seven days under the Indian Civil Protection Code. Authorities argue that the organizers failed to seek prior permission to hold rallies or sit-ins, as required by law.
The protest organizers, however, maintain that they had informed the police about their events and have been conducting their demonstrations peacefully. They accuse the authorities of attempting to intimidate them and suppress their voices in the fight for justice.
The “Reclaim the Night” protests have drawn significant attention in recent days, with citizens advocating for the safety of women in public spaces and condemning the police response to the RG Kar case.