Junior doctors at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata have unveiled a statue as a tribute to a 31-year-old postgraduate trainee doctor who was brutally raped and murdered at the hospital on August 9. The sculpture, named Cry of the Hour, has sparked a debate regarding its appropriateness, with some calling it disrespectful despite the intentions behind it.

The Memorial

The statue, crafted by renowned artist Asit Sain, was installed near the PGB Gardens in front of the building housing the principal’s office. Made of fibreglass, it features a bust of a woman screaming, symbolising the trauma and pain experienced by the victim, who is referred to as “Abhaya” in the inscription.

Junior doctors, who have been deeply affected by the tragedy, view the statue as a powerful reminder of the brutality the victim endured. One of the junior doctors told *The Indian Express*, “It is an emotional moment for us. She was our colleague. We have been fighting for her. She is in our heart, but this installation will ensure no one ever forgets her.”

Another doctor added, “This statue is not of the victim, but a symbol of the pain, torture she went through, and the ongoing protests.”

Backlash and Criticism

Despite the heartfelt intentions, the statue has faced significant criticism on social media. Many found the depiction unsettling and accused the doctors of being “tone-deaf” in their tribute. Critics pointed out that such a memorial might not be the most respectful way to remember the victim.

One user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “The doctors of this country are so tone-deaf. Why would you ever create a statue like this based on a rape victim?” Others questioned how such a project could have been approved, with comments like “Who thought this was a good idea? Who approved this?” being shared widely.

Some users felt that the statue perpetuated a negative image of Indian women. One comment read, “Indian women can’t even be remembered with pride. It’s either perpetually be in pain or be forgotten.”

The Protest for Justice

The unveiling of the statue coincided with a large protest march organised by the Bengal Junior Doctors’ Front. Thousands of junior doctors participated, demanding justice for their colleague and pushing for improved safety measures for healthcare workers. The march, which began at College Street and ended in the Esplanade area, escalated the ongoing protests by medical staff.

Doctors have vowed to continue their agitation until decisive action is taken by the government. They are calling for enhanced security at medical institutions to prevent such heinous crimes in the future. The protest marks a continued effort by the medical community to ensure that the tragic incident is not forgotten and that it leads to substantial changes in how healthcare workers are protected.

Conclusion

The statue at RG Kar Medical College has sparked both emotional responses and criticism. While it is intended to honour a colleague who suffered unimaginable brutality, the depiction has been seen by some as inappropriate and disrespectful. The unveiling comes amid continued protests for justice and better safety for healthcare workers, with junior doctors leading the charge for meaningful change.

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