A wave of fear has prompted many women medical students to leave their hostel at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital following a recent tragic incident.
On August 9, a junior doctor was found dead in a seminar room, having been both raped and murdered. This horrific event has deeply unsettled the student community, particularly the women.
Before the incident, the hostel housed about 160 junior women doctors. Now, only 17 remain. The exodus began immediately after the discovery of the body, and intensified after a violent attack on the hospital by a mob on August 14. This attack, which happened during protests, saw part of the hospital vandalized, causing further panic among the students.
The Supreme Court intervened on August 22, criticizing the West Bengal government for its handling of the situation and questioning the police’s inaction. In response, the court ordered the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) to deploy 150 personnel to secure the hospital.
Despite the increased security, many students are still fearful. Some women who have stayed are dealing with ongoing concerns about their safety and the effectiveness of the investigation into the crimes. A third-year MBBS student expressed, “We feel a bit safer with CISF here, but until all those responsible are caught, it’s hard to feel completely secure.”
In contrast, nursing staff, who must continue their duties, are also feeling the strain. “We are scared, but we have no choice but to stay,” said a 42-year-old nurse. “We are often alone during night shifts, and it’s becoming increasingly unsettling.”
While some students have decided to stay to support ongoing protests and fight for justice, others have chosen to leave, heeding the concerns of their families. The situation remains tense as the community seeks both justice and security.