On August 9th, the nation was shaken by a horrific tragedy. Dr. Moumita Debnath, who was on her 36-hour duty at RG Kar Hospital, Kolkata, was brutally raped and murdered by three men. This heinous act has sent shockwaves across India, sparking widespread outrage and grief.
In response, IIW (Inspiring Indian Women) has joined forces with various organizations to demand justice and safer workplaces for women. Among the many initiatives, a peaceful candlelight vigil was organized on Sunday, August 18, 2024, at 8 PM in Bandra, Mumbai. The march, from Carter Road Children’s Play Area to Bandstand, served as a united call for justice for Dr. Moumita, who was dedicated to her profession and tragically lost her life.
We demand that the authorities swiftly apprehend and prosecute the culprits, with the only fitting punishment being a death sentence. As we reflect on the atrocities from Nirbhaya to this recent tragedy, we must ask ourselves: What has changed? Where did our education system fail? Why has respect for women diminished, leading to a rise in such a sick society?
We demand justice for Dr. Moumita, and our fight continues with the following 17 points:
- Empower Her, Secure Her.
- Safe Spaces, Strong Women.
- Security for Women, Equality for All.
- Protect Her Rights, Ensure Her Safety.
- Safety for Her, Progress for All.
- Respect, Protect, Empower.
- Her Safety is Non-Negotiable.
- Safe Workplaces, Confident Women.
- Security for Women, Strength for the Workplace.
- Secure Women, Secure Future.
- No More Silence, Demand Justice!
- Stand Up, Speak Out, Seek Justice!
- Her Voice Matters, Her Life Matters.
- Justice Delayed is Justice Denied!
- We Demand Truth, We Demand Justice!
- Raise Your Voice, Fight for Justice!
- In Her Name, We Stand for Justice!
Our collective efforts will not cease until justice is served. IIW has also partnered with the Medicos Women Charity Organization in the UK, led by Dr. Dipti Jain, to organize a Silent Candlelight Vigil on August 22nd at Parliament Square, London, near the Gandhi Statue.
A Google form is circulating to gather support from organizations nationwide, aiming to create a larger impact. This march is not just a demonstration but a unified cry for justice from citizens across the country. Doctors, engineers, professionals, NGOs, and people from various walks of life are coming together in solidarity. We anticipate a gathering of over 100 people, all united in their pursuit of justice.
The need of the hour is stricter laws against rape and violence against women. Every small step contributes to a significant change. “The Night is Ours,” a rallying cry for women reclaiming public spaces at night, echoes the demand for safety and an end to violence against women. These protests aim to hold the government accountable and ensure that our voices reach those who can bring about real change.
The IIW Inspiring Indian Women team, including Sangita Chatlani, Dr. Greeshma Wali, Jyotsana Choudhary, Renu Sukheja, and Rashmi Mishra, has played a pivotal role in this movement. Key contributors to the execution of these initiatives also include Manoj Pawar, Debashree Dinda, Sohini Mitra, and Shalini Mitra.
Together, we will continue to fight for justice and work towards a safer, more just society for all.
