As part of the ‘Reclaim the Night’ movement, thousands of people in Kolkata expressed solidarity on Wednesday night by turning out their lights and participating in a candlelight procession. The horrific rape and death of a 31-year-old medical student at RG Kar Medical College served as the spark for the protest.
Beginning at 11:30 p.m., women from all walks of life marched through the streets demanding justice while carrying national flags and candles. This was the second significant protest following the first on August 14. Residents of Kolkata expressed their support by turning out their lights between 9 and 10 p.m. Notably, the march was tranquil, with participants avoiding any political flags.
West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose also showed sympathy by lighting a candle at Raj Bhavan and pressing the state administration to take action. The trainee doctor’s bereaved parents joined protesters at the hospital, where doctors conducted a candlelight vigil. The ‘Reclaim the Night’ movement expanded beyond Kolkata to include towns such as Berhampore, Chinsurah, Siliguri, and Bardhaman. Pavement dwellers also joined the march at Sealdah Station, blowing conch shells in support.
While most protests were peaceful, violence arose in Mathabhanga, where a protester was reportedly beaten. The campaign advocates for justice and greater protections for women throughout the state.