In response to the sexual assault and murder of a doctor at R.G. Kar Hospital, Kolkata, Bhumika Women’s Collective organized protests and awareness rallies across all its active settlements.
These protests served as more than a reaction to a tragic incident — they became platforms for community dialogue on gender-based violence. Through discussions on the root causes of sexual violence and preventive strategies, the focus was placed on the importance of gender-equitable upbringing. Participants emphasized the need to raise boys without discrimination, to educate them on life skills, values, and the realities of violence, thereby cultivating empathy and responsibility from a young age.
The initiative sparked a positive shift in community mindset. Residents began engaging more openly in discussions on social issues, voluntarily expressing concerns, proposing collective solutions, and actively offering support. Encouragingly, young people and adolescents also joined these efforts, signaling the growth of a more aware and responsible generation committed to building safer, more just communities.
Bhumika Women’s Collective actively observes important national and international days such as International Women’s Day, the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, CRC Week, the International Day of the Girl Child and One Billion Rising Campaigns. On these occasions, Bhumika organizes awareness campaigns, cultural programs, rallies, workshops, games and public dialogues that bring together diverse groups—including women, adolescents, youth, community leaders, and stakeholders—to reflect on pressing issues of gender equality, child rights, and ending violence.
These events provide opportunities to amplify the voices of women and young people, highlight stories of resilience, and call for collective action, while also reaching the broader public with messages of equality, dignity, and justice. By leveraging these special days, Bhumika strengthens solidarity and creates visibility for the larger movement towards a violence-free society. As part of the celebrations, community events and interactive games were organized to encourage women’s participation in public spaces, build self-confidence, and help them rediscover their hidden talents and improve their skills by participating. These playful yet purposeful activities also served to sensitize participants on family dynamics, shared decision-making, and the economic contributions of women within households.
