Die Situation

Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, India, has been experiencing significant unrest following the alleged rape and murder of a 31-year-old female resident doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital on 9 August 2024. The incident has led to widespread demonstrations across the country demanding accountability and justice. The situation has escalated, with protests turning violent amid clashes between demonstrators and security personnel.

What Has Led to the Current Situation?

The incident, which occurred at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, a public government teaching hospital, has sparked outrage across India, with many voicing concerns about the issue of the safety of women in workplaces. The protests initially began as a demand for justice, with the medical fraternity and the public calling for immediate action. 

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) launched a nationwide strike following the incident, which briefly halted routine OPDs and elective medical services across the country on 12 August. Protests grew stronger in the following days. The accused was taken into police custody on 14 August, and a probe was launched. There was a nationwide 24-hour withdrawal of medical services on 17 August after unidentified men vandalized the emergency department and nursing stations of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. 

The demonstrations quickly expanded to include calls for the resignation of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for alleged mishandling of the case, particularly from the opposition parties, which have been actively involved in the protests. The National Commission for Women (NCW) has raised concerns about alleged security lapses that may have led to the potential tampering of evidence at the site of the crime. 

On 27 August, a rally was planned to the West Bengal Secretariat ‘Nabanna’ in Kolkata to demand the resignation of the Chief Minister, which was subsequently banned by the police. Violence broke out amid clashes between student protesters and security personnel ahead of the march. According to reports, tensions escalated when some protesters attempted to break through barricades set up by the police in Hastings, Furlong Gate, Strand Road, and Howrah. The police forces used tear gas on the demonstrators who broke barricades and they resorted to stone-pelting. Security forces blocked roads, and some schools and workplaces preemptively closed, anticipating disruptions. A statewide 12-hour strike was called by members of the Bharatiya Janata Party in West Bengal on 28 August to protest police action against participants of the rally. 

Furthermore, junior resident doctors in Kolkata held a march from College Street to Lalbazar on 2 September, demanding the resignation of Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal. Thousands of people participated in the march and formed a 13-km-long human chain along an arterial city road for an hour. The demonstrations lasted for over four hours, involved multiple rounds of talks with senior police officials, but ended without any resolution.

Legislative Responses and Security Measures 

The incident was strongly condemned by the West Bengal government. On 2 September, taking cognisance of the incident, the West Bengal assembly unanimously passed a bill that seeks to make the death penalty mandatory in cases involving rape and murder. The Aparajita Woman and Child (West Bengal Criminal Laws Amendment) Bill, 2024, introduced by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, proposes stricter punishments, including life imprisonment for rape, gang rape, and acid attacks, along with faster trials through more fast-track courts. While the state can enact such laws, any conflict with central legislation may require the president’s assent to be effective within West Bengal.

In response to the growing unrest, Kolkata police have implemented heightened security measures to maintain law and order in the city. Barricades have been erected in key areas of the city, and there is an increased deployment of security personnel around government buildings and major intersections. Travellers should be aware that while protests have been concentrated in specific areas until now, there is a possibility of sudden flare-ups in other parts of the city. The situation remains fluid, with a strong police presence and potential roadblocks and transport disruptions.

Is It Safe to Travel to Kolkata?

Given the current situation, travellers should exercise caution if planning to visit Kolkata. The ongoing protests have created pockets of unrest throughout the city that could pose risks to visitors. It is advisable to avoid any areas where protests or demonstrations are taking place and to stay updated on the latest developments.

Sicherheitsvorkehrungen für Reisende

• Travellers are advised to avoid areas near government buildings, universities, and major intersections, as these have been focal points for protests.
• Stay updated on local news and follow any advisories issued by local authorities.
• Expect delays and potential roadblocks, especially in Kolkata city. If possible, plan your travel routes in advance and consider alternative routes to avoid delays.
• To minimize safety risks, avoid areas of large public gatherings or protests. Even events intended to be peaceful can escalate unexpectedly and quickly become violent.
• Expect limited availability of healthcare services in case of another doctors’ strike. Identify alternative medical facilities for urgent needs. 

The travel risk to Kolkata is currently moderate to high due to the ongoing protests. While the city is not in a state of general unrest, the situation remains fluid. Travellers should be vigilant, avoid protest areas, and stay informed about the situation to ensure their safety.

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