Hyderabad residents unite in candlelight rallies to demand justice for Kolkata doctor
Hyderabad: Residents of Hyderabad held candlelight rallies across the city, demanding justice for a 31-year-old female doctor brutally murdered at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. The protests reflect a unified stand against the heinous crime and a call for immediate and stringent legal action.
In Manikonda, a candlelight march was organised by The Citizens Council. The event took place at Marrichettu Circle and saw a large turnout of doctors, residents, and health workers. Participants mourned the tragic death of the doctor and voiced their demands for justice.
Speaking with the Hyderabad Mail, Shaik Aarif Mohammed, General Secretary of The Citizens Council, said, “This is not just a crime against the 31-year-old doctor. It is a crime against humanity. We stand here today not only to mourn but to demand justice. We call for the immediate execution of the culprits. This brutality cannot be tolerated, and our voices must echo through every corridor of power.”
Thank you to everyone who participated in tonight’s candlelight protest in Manikonda. Our community united in solidarity, not just for our own, but also for justice for the doctor in Kolkata who was brutally raped and murdered. Yes, Manikonda responded. https://t.co/5AzOCYTvrk pic.twitter.com/lqbjR2yhXs
— Apna😍Manikonda🤩 (@ManikondaM88292) August 18, 2024
Sitaram Dhulipala, President of The Citizens Council, highlighted the urgency of legal action. “Justice delayed is justice denied. We demand that those responsible for this heinous act be hanged without delay. The swift action taken in the case of Disha in Telangana, where the accused were encountered, should serve as a precedent for handling such cases. Why should the laws be any less stringent for the 31-year-old doctor ?”
Upendranadh Reddy, Joint Secretary of The Citizens Council, called for improved protection for doctors. “Doctors dedicate their lives to saving ours. It’s tragic that they are now the ones who need protection. Attacks on medical professionals must stop, and it’s time we ensure their safety at all costs.”
Participants Lata Goud and Rupa Reddy expressed their concerns about rising violence against women. “The increasing number of attacks and rapes against women is alarming,” they said. “Both the Union and State governments need to enforce stricter laws. Women’s safety is the need of the hour, and the time for action is now.”
Laxman Rao, Vice President of The Citizens Council, reminded the public of the crucial role doctors play in society. “Without doctors, we cannot save lives. They are our saviors, our gods in times of need. The fact that a doctor has become a victim of such a horrific crime is a failure of our society, and we must condemn this in the strongest possible terms.”
Dhanraj, a senior leader from Neknampur, explained the need for swift justice. “When the entire nation witnessed rapid justice for the rape and murder of Disha, it sent a clear message: there is no place for such criminals in our society. The same strict policies must be applied here. The accused must face the full force of the law immediately.”
Dr. Zameer, a doctor, said the importance of safeguarding women doctors. “Women doctors are not just professionals but pillars of our healthcare system. Their role is indispensable, and their safety must be our priority.”
Santosh, a resident of Krishna Reddy Enclave, Manikonda, said there is a need for enhanced protection. “Doctors are the backbone of our healthcare system. Ensuring their safety is not just important but it’s essential. We cannot allow such tragedies to happen again.”
Meanwhile, Kondapur residents also showed solidarity for the Kolkata Doctor with a candlelight rally at the Kondapur Botanical Gardens. The rally featured banners with messages such as Hang the Rapists, We Want Speedy Justice, and Safety for Women is a Major Concern.
Ajith Nair, an IT professional and philanthropist from Kondapur, spoke to the Hyderabad Mail, highlighting the increasing incidents of violence against women. He mentioned that women should stay vigilant and cautious, utilise self-defense measures, and report issues at work and home. Additionally, he recommended the use of apps and the emergency hotline (Dial 100) to seek help in urgent situations.
Ajith Nair, Vinay Vangala, Dr. Naveen Nimmala, and other residents participated in the rally, showing their commitment to ensuring women’s safety and justice.
