In the eastern Indian state of West Bengal, protesters blocked train tracks, halted buses, and chanted slogans on Wednesday. This demonstration is the latest in a series of protests triggered by the rape and murder of a trainee doctor.
The situation escalated on Tuesday when police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse protesters heading towards the state secretariat. In response, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which is in opposition in West Bengal, called for a 12-hour statewide strike on Wednesday, condemning the alleged police brutality.
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On Wednesday, thousands of protesters, primarily BJP supporters, blocked roads and railway tracks and forced shops to close. Authorities have deployed 5,000 police personnel to manage the situation and prevent further violence.
The protests began after the rape and murder of a 31-year-old doctor in a government hospital in Kolkata on August 9. Demonstrators, including many university students, are calling for the resignation of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who is a strong critic of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The attack has sparked nationwide outrage, echoing the widespread protests that followed the 2012 gang-rape of a 23-year-old student in New Delhi. Campaigners argue that, despite stricter laws, sexual violence against women remains a serious issue.
A police volunteer has been arrested in connection with the crime, and the federal police have taken over the investigation.
