Abstract

The recent rape case in Kolkata has ignited a wave of public outrage, leading to widespread protests and strikes across the city. As citizens demand justice and systemic reform, the question arises: will these protests bring about meaningful change, or will they be another fleeting expression of collective anger? This article explores the situation’s complexities by examining the historical and social contexts of protests in India, particularly in Kolkata, and their potential to effect change in a system rife with gender violence and judicial inertia. Strikes and protests have historically been catalysts for change in India, but their success depends on multiple factors such as political will, sustained media attention, and public perseverance. The article also highlights the evolving role of social media in amplifying and maintaining the momentum of these movements, contrasting it with traditional forms of protest. Additionally, the government’s response and the current legal framework surrounding gender-based violence are critically analyzed to assess whether the public outcry will prompt the necessary reforms or fall into the familiar cycle of outrage followed by inaction. By focusing on the ongoing strikes in Kolkata, this article seeks to provide insights into the potential for societal transformation and the hurdles that lie ahead, questioning the effectiveness of public protests in achieving justice and lasting change in India’s fight against gender violence.

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