As the vibrant and much-anticipated Durga Puja approaches, a chilling reality has gripped the city of Kolkata. In the wake of a heinous crime—the brutal rape and murder of a doctor at RG Kar Medical College—the festive spirit is overshadowed by growing concerns for women’s safety. This shocking incident has not only sparked widespread outrage but has also compelled many to rethink their daily routines and personal safety strategies. Among those raising awareness is social media influencer Shreyasi Biswas, who has shared a video on her platform, urging women to include self-defense items in their Durga Puja shopping lists.
A Sobering Shopping List: Pepper Spray, Alarm Keychains, and More
In a video that has garnered significant attention, Biswas expresses her disbelief that she needs to create such content. The influencer, known for her lifestyle tips and recommendations, has now found herself in the unexpected position of advocating for women's safety through practical self-defense tools. “Never thought I would ever have to make a video on women’s safety staying in Kolkata!! Our safety is so vulnerable and endangered in a system like this that women need to take care of their own,” Biswas stated. Her video, which has been viewed over 760,000 times and liked by nearly 74,000 represents a disturbing shift in the public consciousness.
The items she recommends—pepper spray, an alarm keychain, and a mini knife—are not your typical festive shopping list additions. Yet, in the current climate, they are deemed necessary by many women who feel increasingly unsafe in their city.
Public Reaction: A Mix of Support and Criticism
The response to Biswas's video has been varied, reflecting the complexity of the issue at hand. While many Instagram users empathised with her concerns and expressed their own fears, others took a more critical stance. One user commented, “Still you can't defend yourself if five men attack you... It's the psychology and mindset on which education should be provided to both genders!” However, not all responses were sympathetic. Some accused Biswas of exploiting the tragedy for personal gain, labelling her as an “opportunist.”
A City in Mourning
The horror that unfolded at RG Kar Medical College on August 9 has left an indelible mark on the city. The accused, Sanjay Roy, has been described in a psychoanalytical profile by the CBI as a “pervert addicted to pornography,” painting a disturbing picture of a man capable of unspeakable acts. This tragic event has reignited discussions around women's safety in India, a country where incidents of sexual violence continue to make headlines with alarming frequency. The need for systemic change is more urgent than ever, with many calling for stricter laws, better enforcement, and a cultural shift in how women are perceived and treated.
As Durga Puja approaches, the city of Kolkata finds itself in a state of unease. What should be a time of celebration and joy is now tinged with fear and anxiety. The tragic loss of a young doctor has cast a pall over the festivities, leaving many to question what more can be done to ensure that women can walk the streets of Kolkata without fear.
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