The rape and murder of 31-year-old trainee doctor Dr. Pooja Singh at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College on August 9, 2024 has sparked nationwide outrage in India. Dr. Singh was discovered severely injured in a seminar room after working a grueling 36-hour shift. A hospital volunteer, Sanjay Roy, has been arrested in connection with the crime. Following the transfer of the investigation to the CBI by the Calcutta High Court, massive protests have erupted across major cities, and doctors have staged a nationwide strike, leaving only emergency services operational.
Dr. Singh, remembered by her family for her dedication and caring nature, had been their only child and had worked hard to overcome financial hardships to become a doctor. Her tragic death has revived memories of the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case and highlighted ongoing issues with violence against women in India. The case has led to calls for better safety measures for healthcare workers and stricter legal protections. Federal Health Minister JP Nadda has promised to address these issues, but for Dr. Singh’s family, the focus remains on ensuring the harshest punishment for Sanjay Roy.