By: Natasha Archary
Disclaimer: The story below contains graphic details which may not be suitable for sensitive readers
Doctors across India staged a 24-hour protest over the brutal rape and murder of 31-year-old trainee doctor, Dr Moumita Debanath.
Dr Moumita’s horrific death was confirmed on 09 August, after she had completed a gruelling 36-hour shift at the RG Kar Medical College in Kolkata, India and sought rest inside a seminar room.
The extent of her injuries sent shockwaves across India and many parts of the world, with calls for justice resonating across India.
Dr Moumita’s semi-naked body was found with both her legs positioned at right angles, indicating severe trauma to her pelvis.
Her body was not found in the seminar room she used to rest in, instead, the young doctor was located in a room across the hall from where construction was underway.
A preliminary autopsy revealed that Dr Moumita had been raped and strangled to death.
Her body was found with a large amount of semen inside her, she had severe bleeding from both her eyes as the glasses she wore were found shattered and embedded in her eyes.
While one man has since been arrested for the heinous crime, the hospital had informed Dr Moumita Debanath’s parents that their daughter had died by suicide, pointing to a possible cover-up which caused further outrage.
Sanjay Roy, a civic assistant was remanded in police custody until 23 August, after he reportedly confessed to the crime.
News of Dr Moumita’ death has led to an outpouring of grief and anger with doctors calling for safer work environments in the healthcare sector, especially for women who work long hours under challenging conditions.
Vigils have been held in Dr Moumita’s memory, with calls for swift action to take its course.
@skynews Indian doctors have gone on a 24-hour strike to protest against the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor. One doctor called for those responsible for the rape and murder ‘to be hanged’. #skynews #india
The Indian Medical Association Junior Doctor’s Network demanded an impartial investigation into the case, noting the suspicious circumstances that are surrounding the case.
Former Principal of the hospital, Dr Sandhip Ghosh resigned from his post, claiming “moral responsibility.”
Just a few hours following his resignation, Dr Ghosh was hired at another government medical college.
Also read: 40-year-old Zambian national linked to kidnappings intercepted at OR Tambo airport
