Kolkata doctor's rape-murder case: Activist rallies women to reclaim independence on August 14 night

After the brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old post-graduate trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, waves of protests have emerged across the country. One such protest, led by Rimjhim Sinha, a former sociology researcher from Presidency University, is set to take place on the night of August 14-15, as the country celebrates its 77th Independence Day tomorrow.

Sinha’s protest is called “The Night Is Ours” and is aimed at highlighting the stark reality that, while India celebrates its independence on the night of August 14-15, women in the country still lack true freedom.

"I thought that on the night of Independence Day, when the entire India celebrates its independence, I would celebrate my independence as a woman," Sinha said in an interview with News18. "I will call for every person who belongs to a marginalised gender community to come forth and celebrate their independence."
The shocking crime has ignited outrage across the nation, and Sinha’s call for action has resonated with thousands.

Initially shared on Facebook, Sinha's appeal quickly went viral, striking a chord with many across the country. The outpouring of support has been overwhelming, with numerous women expressing their intent to join the protest. Sinha noted that even those unable to stay for the entire night are planning to participate for at least a few hours, demonstrating their solidarity.

"Whenever there is something powerful enough to challenge that system and break its so-called norms and laws... there will be people who will try to malign it. My stand is that I want every person who has belonged to a marginalised community to have their own stand, to live their independent lives, where they do not have to be subjected to oppression every single day,” Sinha told News18.