Raksha Bandhan, a festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters, is a time for reaffirming promises of protection and support. Sisters tie a rakhi on their brother's wrists, symbolising a pledge of safety and care. This year, however, as we celebrate this cherished tradition, we must also confront a distressing reality about women's safety in our society.

In a recent, unsettling case, a trainee doctor, 31, at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, West Bengal, was reportedly raped and was found dead. This incident, involving a healthcare professional, a figure traditionally seen as a protector of the vulnerable, has shaken the community and underscored the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and accountability within institutions meant to safeguard individuals' well-being.

The allegations have drawn attention to the broader issue of safety in medical institutions, which are supposed to be sanctuaries for those needing care. This case is particularly alarming as it involves a young professional who should have been in a position of trust and authority.

This tragic incident is a grim reminder that women's safety is still a critical issue in our society. Despite the legal frameworks and policies in place, there are glaring gaps in the enforcement and implementation of these measures. The promise of protection should not be a mere formality; it must be a reality for every woman, irrespective of her profession or social status.

Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach. It is essential to ensure that institutions like hospitals and educational establishments have robust mechanisms to prevent and respond to violence. This includes stringent background checks, clear reporting procedures, and a zero-tolerance policy towards abuse.

At Child Help Foundation, we are deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of women and girls. Our initiatives focus on creating awareness, advocating for stronger laws, and providing education to girls.

On this Raksha Bandhan, we renew our commitment to these causes. We believe that the essence of this festival extends beyond familial ties and should include a pledge to foster a safer environment for all women. Our work involves not only supporting survivors but also engaging in advocacy to ensure that institutions are held accountable and that effective measures are in place to prevent such incidents.

The recent case at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital serves as a stark reminder of the need for action. We must move beyond words and make substantial efforts to ensure safety for all. This includes:

• Strengthening Legal Frameworks: Enforcing and updating laws to ensure swift justice for survivors of sexual violence.
• Institutional Accountability: ensuring that institutions have stringent policies and practices in place to prevent and address incidents of abuse.
• Public awareness: educating communities about consent, respect, and the importance of standing against violence

As we celebrate Raksha Bandhan, let us also take this opportunity to reflect on our collective responsibility to ensure that every woman feels safe and valued. The promise of protection should be a universal commitment, not limited to familial bonds but extending to every aspect of society.

Raksha Bandhan is a celebration of the bond between siblings, but it is also a moment to address broader societal issues. This year, let us use this festival as a call to action, to ensure that the promise of safety extends to all women. At Child Help Foundation, we stand firm in our dedication to this cause and urge everyone to join us in creating a safer, more just society.

May this Raksha Bandhan inspire us all to uphold the true spirit of protection and work towards a future where every woman can live with dignity and security.