A girl's silent cry: where justice fails, we bleed

Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore the theories and the socio-political-cultural factors connected with the atrocities and crimes committed on women, especially in the context of rape and murder case of a young woman trainee doctor at R. G. Kar Medical College in Kolkata, India. It also explores the mass movement and anger of the general public against such crimes, having a possible impact on the required administrative and policy reforms. Design/methodology/approach Thematic analysis and sentiment analysis of media reports till two months after the incident were carried out. The result is presented in the form of a poem. Findings The poem reflects the voice of a young girl, deeply pained by violence against women and systemic failures. She grieves the rape and murder of the lady doctor, questioning why women, who give life, are often the victims. The girl questions the failure of the systems and society to protect them despite existing laws. She highlights the economic and emotional toll of violence and condemns the corrupt politicians, bureaucrats and all those who are involved in manipulating justice. Originality/value The poem calls for systemic change and administrative reforms, insisting that true progress in a real sense should ensure safety and dignity for women and all citizens, and not just economic growth.