Human Lives Human Rights: In the wake of violent attacks on peaceful protesters in Kolkata, who were advocating for justice in the tragic case of a gang-rape and murder of a young doctor, Amnesty International India has issued a strong statement demanding government action. Aakar Patel, Chair of the Board at Amnesty International India, characterized the assault on demonstrators as “despicable,” emphasizing that their peaceful call for justice should be safeguarded by authorities.
Patel highlighted the obligation of officials to uphold the right to peaceful assembly, stating, “The authorities must protect protesters from violence, including attacks from non-State actors and counter-demonstrators. Failing to address these acts of intimidation can heighten public frustration and anger towards law enforcement.”
The circumstances surrounding the case are alarming, as the 31-year-old doctor was brutally gang-raped and murdered at RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata on August 9. This horrific event ignited widespread protests across India. On August 13, the Kolkata High Court intervened, transferring the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) due to significant delays and concerns over evidence preservation, as well as crucial oversights by the hospital administration.
Tragically, on August 14, unidentified assailants targeted peaceful protesters at the medical college, vandalizing property and attacking participants with reported injuries among medical staff. Eyewitness accounts suggest police failed to control the situation, leaving emergency calls from protesters unanswered.
In light of these recent developments, Patel called for urgent accountability, insisting that those responsible for the assaults on peaceful protesters must face justice. He also urged the CBI to conduct a swift and thorough investigation into the doctor’s murder, warning that any delay would only perpetuate a climate of fear and impunity.
As protests continue nationwide, advocates are calling for a robust legal framework to protect medical professionals from violence. The situation underscores the crucial need for authorities to ensure the safety of citizens exercising their rights to free expression and peaceful assembly.
