MARGAO: On Thursday, the Indian Medical Association, several women’s associations, and students from G R Kare Law College staged a protest in response to the recent rape and murder incident reported in Kolkata, demanding immediate measures to ensure women’s safety and calling for stronger protective actions.
The protest began with a rally led by students from Govind Ramnath Kare College of Law, who marched through Margao’s commercial district to express solidarity with the victimised doctor. Later, various women’s groups gathered in front of the Margao Municipal building to voice their concerns.
Leena Panandikar, representing the Margao Mahila Mandal, expressed her frustration over the government’s failure to protect women. “We, as women, need safety and equality, especially in a democratic country like India,” she stated. “There is a lack of safety for women in Goa and across the country, and the government has failed to take adequate measures. Women need security and independence, and criminals must be punished.”
Dr Babita Naik announced that the protesting groups would submit a memorandum to the government and relevant ministers, demanding immediate action to enhance women’s safety. “We hope that our government becomes more sensitive to women’s issues,” she said. “There needs to be greater sensitisation on women’s rights and protocols to follow in cases of sexual abuse, especially in the workplace.”
Auda Viegas, President of Bailancho Ekvott, expressed anger over the rising number of crimes against women, stating that it has brought shame to society. “Laws need to be implemented correctly, and women’s rights must be protected,” she said. “There should be increased awareness so that victims know their rights and what steps to take next.”
Another protester emphasised the demand for swift justice. “We want the safety of women in all workplaces, as well as at an individual level,” she said. “Men need to be educated about women’s rights, as we strive for a better society.”
Students from Kare Law College also called for a thorough and timely investigation into the Kolkata incident, demanding that the culprits be punished. They urged for necessary amendments to the law to prevent such incidents in the future.
