India: Further protests and doctors' strikes likely across West Bengal State through early October over sexual assault and murder case /update 6

Further protests and doctors' strikes are likely across West Bengal State through early October over the alleged rape and murder of a female resident doctor at Kolkata's R. G. Kar Medical College Aug. 9. Left-wing organizations have called for a protest at the Dharmatala area of Kolkata from 13:00 Sept. 26, while the Communist Party of India (Maoist) plans to protest at the Gandhi Statue in Midnapore City 09:00 Sept. 27. Junior doctors in West Bengal State partially resumed essential and emergency services Sept. 21, though outpatient services remain suspended. They have set a deadline of Sept. 26 for the state government to address their demands for better security at hospitals and justice for the victim.

Popular protest sites include medical colleges, public healthcare facilities, government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares in urban centers across West Bengal. Gatherings are also likely near facilities of investigation agencies like the police and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), as well as the chief ministerial residence and office in West Bengal. In Kolkata, possible gathering locations include Kolkata Police Headquarters, RG Kar Hospital, Nabanna, Shyambazar, and Swasthya Bhawan. Demonstrators may march along or block roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions. Associated localized business disruptions are possible.

Authorities will likely monitor any rallies that materialize and could use force to disperse unruly crowds or unauthorized gatherings. A gathering ban remains in place at RG Kar Hospital through Sept. 30 as a precaution. Arson, vandalism, and isolated clashes between police and activists are possible. Enhanced security measures, such as roadblocks around government buildings, may occur.