“NINETY days have passed since August 9. Ninety days of rage, ninety days of resilience. Ninety days since the brutal rape and murder of Dr Abhaya-Tilottama at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital ignited a fire in our hearts. For ninety days, we've demanded justice, rising against the tide of lawlessness engulfing our state. We've amplified the voices of women and marginalised genders, victims of relentless violence. We've battled a crumbling healthcare system and the pervasive insecurity that plagues our workplaces. We've resisted the calculated destruction of our education system. For ninety days, we've defied Mamata Banerjee's regime of fear and silence, a regime that allows a 'threat culture' to penetrate every aspect of human life. Our struggle – the people's struggle –continues...” With this context, a Janatar chargesheet (people’s chargesheet) was presented on November 9, by Abhaya Mancha, a forum of senior doctors and almost a hundred citizens' groups, during a massive gathering at Esplanade, Kolkata.

The chargesheet read: We, the public, demand a thorough and impartial investigation into this tragic incident. Several critical questions remain unanswered:

 * Security lapses: How could a non-duty civic police officer roam freely within the hospital premises at night without any hindrance?

 * Institutional failures: Why were there apparent lapses in security protocols and surveillance systems within the hospital?

 * Role of authorities: Did the health department and hospital authorities fail to provide adequate security measures and a conducive working environment for medical staff?

 * Transparency in investigation: Why is there a lack of transparency in the investigation? Are there attempts to suppress crucial evidence or mislead the public?

 * Corruption and nepotism: Are corruption and nepotism rampant within the state's healthcare system, compromising patient care and the safety of medical professionals?

This tragic incident has highlighted broader issues within the healthcare sector, including:

 * Unsafe working conditions: Medical professionals are subjected to harassment, intimidation, and even violence.

 * Corruption in medical education: Allegations of corruption in medical admissions and examinations persist.

 * Lack of accountability: There is a lack of accountability among those in positions of power.

We demand justice for the victim and systemic reforms to prevent future tragedies. We urge the authorities to take swift and decisive action to address these issues and ensure the safety and well-being of healthcare professionals.

"We, as doctors, are not just professionals, but also human beings who deserve to feel safe in our workplace," said Dr Tamonas Chaudhuri, one of the convenors of Abhaya Mancha. "This brutal attack has shattered our peace of mind. We demand justice. We demand safety for all healthcare workers. And we won't back down until we get it."

The protest rally at Esplanade saw a diverse crowd, including doctors, civil society members, and ordinary citizens. Speakers at the rally, including prominent figures such as Dr Punyabrata Gun, Dr Tamonas Chaudhuri, Manisha Adak, Ratnaboli Roy passionately advocated for a comprehensive investigation and severe punishment for the perpetrators. Former Supreme Court judge Ashok Kumar Ganguly, in a scathing critique of the Supreme Court's handling of the case, expressed deep disappointment over the delays and raised serious questions about the government's commitment to delivering justice. He underscored the public's unwavering demand for answers and accountability, urging the authorities to take decisive and immediate action. The protest was a powerful display of unity, filled with passionate speeches, stirring slogans, and moving songs and plays. The participants, fuelled by a deep-seated anger and frustration, pledged to continue their fight until justice is served.

HUNDREDTH DAY PROTEST

A global call for silence echoed from the rally itself. Abhaya Mancha urged the world to pause for 100 seconds at 6 PM on November 17, marking 100 days since Abhaya's tragic death. This poignant moment of silence aimed to amplify the demand for swift justice and condemn the perpetrators of this heinous crime. People everywhere were encouraged to halt their daily routines, drivers to stop their vehicles or refrain from honking, uniting in a powerful display of solidarity. The organisers hoped this global act of silence would resonate with authorities, pushing them to expedite the investigation and deliver the justice Abhaya deserves.

A sombre hush fell over the city as it marked 100 days since the heart-wrenching loss of a young medical student at RG Kar Medical College Hospital. Abhaya Mancha organised a series of commemorative events, including a poignant cycle rally from Abhaya's Sodepur residence to a candlelight vigil and public meeting at Shyambazar near the hospital where she worked. A large crowd gathered, expressing their deep sorrow and frustration at the sluggish pace of the investigation. Despite the CBI's involvement, protesters alleged deliberate delays and accused the state government of lacking sincerity in their pursuit of justice. They demanded a thorough, impartial probe. The protest also threw a spotlight on the deteriorating healthcare system in West Bengal, plagued by corruption, nepotism, and a lack of accountability. Protesters called for urgent reforms to address these critical issues and ensure the safety and well-being of healthcare professionals.

The memory of the young medical student continues to inspire and motivate people, fuelling a growing movement for justice. The protests have become a powerful platform for collective outrage, amplifying the demand for accountability and transparency. As the city mourns the loss of a promising life, the call for justice grows stronger with each passing day.

PROTEST AGAINST PENAL TRANSFER 

Meanwhile, doctors in large numbers, led by the Joint Platform of Doctors, staged a protest at the Swasthya Bhavan, the health directorate headquarters on November 18, stating that the transfer of two senior doctors was illegal and a clear act of retaliation. A delegation of doctors tried to meet with higher authorities, but none was available. This display of heavy-handedness against its own medical professionals fuelled the doctors' outrage.

Dr Utpal Banerjee, a leading voice in the protest, declared, "This transfer order blatantly disregards National Medical Commission regulations. It's a clear attempt to silence those who dare to expose corruption." The doctors' 24-hour ultimatum to the government underscores their determination. They warn that if the transfer order isn't rescinded, the protests will escalate. Their concern is clear: shifting senior doctors from district hospitals to rural areas will jeopardise patient care, as district hospitals typically handle more complex cases. This protest is a stark illustration of the growing unrest among West Bengal's medical professionals. They're increasingly speaking out against a range of issues, including corruption, inadequate working conditions, and a perceived lack of government support.