A controversy has arisen following the installation of a statue representing a trainee doctor who was tragically raped and murdered at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in August. This statue, titled 'Cry of the Hour,' was created by artist Asit Sain and aims to depict the victim's anguish during her final moments. It has been placed near the principal's office at the hospital.

However, the installation has faced significant backlash on social media, with many users describing it as "disrespectful" and "disturbing." Critics argue that memorializing the victim in such a manner reduces her identity to her suffering. One user tweeted, "If you want to erect her statue, do it without showing her agonized face. This is highly disturbing." Another remarked, "To have one’s pain immortalized, to only be known for being sexually violated, is incredibly insensitive."

Trinamool Congress leader Kunal Ghosh also criticized the statue, emphasizing that it goes against Supreme Court guidelines regarding the anonymity of victims. He stated, "No responsible person can do that. There are guidelines against using victims' images or likenesses in this manner."

In defense of the statue, Dr. Debdutt from RG Kar hospital asserted, "We have not violated any rules or neglected the court's orders. This is a symbolic sculpture intended to highlight the suffering the victim endured. We will continue our fight for justice."

The junior doctors at RG Kar have been on strike since Tuesday, demanding better safety measures and security in hospitals following the violent incident. Although they partially resumed services after a 42-day strike, they have returned to ceasework, citing unfulfilled promises from the West Bengal government regarding enhanced safety protocols for medical staff. Key demands include the installation of CCTV cameras, 24-hour security for healthcare workers, and stricter measures to prevent violence against medical professionals.