Kolkata, Sept 11 — Indian doctors in Kolkata have defied a Supreme Court order to end their month-long strike, which began after the rape and murder of a fellow doctor. Thousands marched in solidarity with the striking medics.

The incident, involving the discovery of the 31-year-old doctor's bloodied body at a state-run hospital on August 9, has ignited nationwide outrage over the persistent issue of violence against women.

While protests and strikes have generally subsided across India, demonstrations persist in Kolkata, where the murder has sparked ongoing demands for safer conditions for women and increased security.

New Delhi, Sept 11 — On Monday, the Supreme Court in New Delhi set a deadline of Tuesday evening for medics to resume work. However, Aniket Mahato, spokesman for the West Bengal Junior Doctors Front, announced that they would not comply.

"Junior doctors at state-run medical colleges and hospitals across West Bengal will continue their strike until justice is served for the rape and murder of our trainee post-graduate colleague," Mahato stated.

The police reported that around 30,000 people took to the streets yesterday, forming a massive human chain and chanting, "No safety, no duty."

While one suspect has been detained in connection with the murder, the West Bengal state government has faced criticism for its handling of the investigation.

Mahato mentioned that doctors could face "disciplinary action" for not returning to work but emphasized that the strike is crucial for ensuring safe working conditions for medical professionals.

The brutal nature of the attack has drawn comparisons to the 2012 Delhi gang rape and murder case, which became a significant political issue and contributed to the electoral success of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).