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A sculpture depicting the bust of a screaming woman, titled “Cry of the Hour,” has been unveiled at Kolkata’s RG Kar hospital as a tribute to a junior trainee doctor who was allegedly raped and murdered in August. While intended as a solemn remembrance, the statue has sparked widespread controversy with many criticizing it as disrespectful to the victim's memory and insensitive in its portrayal.
The statue, crafted in fiberglass, was installed on a pedestal near the hospital by protesting junior doctors who are demanding justice for their colleague. Artist Asit Sain explained the sculpture’s intention, stating it aimed to depict the victim's horror during her final moments. Junior doctors expressed the importance of the installation, emphasizing their desire to ensure her memory and the tragedy are not forgotten.
However, the sculpture has drawn significant criticism from various individuals and groups, including Trinamool Congress leader Kunal Ghosh. Ghosh took to social media to voice his concerns, highlighting that the statue goes against the spirit of Supreme Court pronouncements regarding privacy and victim protection. He argued that while protests and demands for justice are valid, a statue depicting the victim’s pain is inappropriate.
Public reactions on social media platforms echoed similar sentiments, with many expressing shock and disgust at the choice to commemorate the doctor through such a graphic and insensitive representation. The prevailing sentiment was one of concern that the victim's pain and suffering were being exploited and trivialized.
Despite the criticism, Dr Debdutt of RG Kar hospital defended the statue, stating it was intended as a symbolic gesture and not a literal depiction of the victim. He maintained that the sculpture aimed to draw attention to the circumstances surrounding the doctor's death and the need for improved safety measures within hospitals. The junior doctors, who have been on a cease work since Tuesday, are demanding the West Bengal government fulfill its promises to enhance security and address their concerns regarding safety.
The controversy surrounding the statue highlights the complexities and sensitivities surrounding public memorials and representations of traumatic events. While the intent may be to honor the deceased and raise awareness about important issues, the chosen approach can often be deeply divisive and raise questions about respect for the victim and their family.
Source: ‘Speechless at how insensitive this is’: Bust at Kolkata's RG Kar hospital evokes strong reactions