The horrifying incident of the rape and murder in Kolkata has sparked widespread outrage across India, uniting people in demanding justice for the victim. The relentless search for justice has provided a sense of strength to the victim’s parents during an unimaginably difficult time. After their daughter was subjected to such brutality and subsequently killed, the lack of immediate and effective action from authorities left them with little choice but to take to the streets in protest. This collective outcry brought the Kolkata incident into national conversation, amplifying the voices of grief and anger from a singular city to the entire country.

Everyone who learned about this abhorrent act was moved to tears, including medical professionals, everyday citizens, and prominent celebrities who joined in the fight for justice for the doctor’s daughter. The sense of solidarity and support was palpable, with the victim’s father expressing gratitude to all who have stood beside them. In an interview with TV9 Bangla, he stated, “So many people are with us, which is why we feel strong.”

The Loss of a Daughter, the Gain of a Community

The victim’s mother shared her pain, stating, “I lost one daughter, but I have gained thousands of sons and daughters who stood by us. We are grateful for their support.” Her husband, the victim’s father, echoed these sentiments, saying that his heart aches but he must thank the people for their solidarity. “They are fighting for my daughter as if she were their own,” he remarked.

Insight into the Protests

When asked about the day violence broke out at RG Kar College and Hospital, the mother reflected on the attempted distractions from the issue at hand. “I believe it was orchestrated to shift focus away from this case,” she asserted, suggesting that the chaos was intentional.

Reflections on the Diary

The victim’s father shared the immense difficulty of coping with their loss: “It’s incredibly hard for any parent to endure this. I wouldn’t wish such suffering upon anyone.” The mother recalled her daughter’s aspirations of becoming a doctor, mentioning a diary that police presented to them. “They asked if it was my daughter’s diary,” she said, noting a ripped page that had caught their attention. “There was nothing in the diary that my daughter couldn’t share with me,” she added, expressing deep emotional pain.

Details about Night Shifts

During the conversation, the mother was inquired about the victim’s night shifts. She responded, “She worked four night shifts each month.” When asked where she would sleep during these shifts, the mother explained, “There was a sleep study room, and sometimes she would sleep there or occasionally in the seminar hall.” The mother clarified the circumstances after disturbing reports emerged regarding her daughter’s body, stressing that they had received conflicting information but lacked definitive evidence.

Last Conversations

Post the Nirbhaya incident, many parents have felt compelled to reach out to their children more frequently due to heightened concerns. The mother responded thoughtfully, stating, “After reaching the hospital, it felt like her second home; I didn’t feel the need to call her.” Reflecting on their last communication, she said her daughter reassured her, “You all should eat and take care of Dad’s medicines. There’s no need to worry.” Sadly, that would be their last interaction.

Moving Forward

Now, after eleven days since the tragic incident, the victim’s father voiced their dissatisfaction with the progress of administrative action, stating, “We are not satisfied. But we are hopeful.”