Kolkata, India: The first anniversary of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital Junior doctor Abhaya’s brutal death turned into a day of anger, grief, and political confrontation in Kolkata, as her family took part in the Nabanna Abhiyan protest demanding justice. The family maintains that the crime could not have been committed by the lone arrested accused, Sanjoy Roy, and has renewed calls for the arrest and prosecution of others they believe were involved.

The protest coincided with Raksha Bandhan, adding an emotional weight to the day for the grieving family. “This is not the end; every time we fail, we will fight again,” said Abhaya’s father, his voice breaking as he recalled the year-long struggle. He compared their fight to the Mahabharata, saying, “The great war was fought because Draupadi was disrobed; otherwise, it would not have happened. This too is a war — a war for justice.”

Mother Injured in March, Police Denies Assault

During the protest march, Abhaya’s mother alleged that police broke the shankha the conch shell bangles worn by married women from her wrist and physically assaulted her, causing her to fall ill. She was later seen being assisted away from the protest site. Police, however, rejected the claim outright. Port Division Deputy Commissioner stated, “No such incident took place during the protest. These allegations are baseless.”

Political Slugfest Intensifies

The anniversary rally quickly drew political reactions. Opposition parties accused the state government of attempting to shield those responsible and using police force to intimidate the family and protesters. Leaders criticised what they called a “calculated attempt” to derail the investigation, alleging that law enforcement agencies were being used for political ends.

The ruling party, in turn, dismissed the opposition’s charges as “politically motivated”, insisting that the investigation was on track and accusing rivals of exploiting a sensitive case for electoral gain ahead of 2026.

A Year of Unanswered Questions

For Abhaya’s family, the day underscored the long road ahead. They expressed frustration with the pace of the probe and claimed that their persistent questioning had led to hints from the CBI Director about withdrawing from the case. “We will seek answers from the court,” her father vowed.

The family has made it clear their campaign for justice will not end until all those they believe are guilty are brought to trial, no matter how long it takes or how many political battles erupt along the way.

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