In response to the rape-murder of a trainee doctor at R.G. Kar Hospital, Bengali theatre personality Biplab Bandyopadhyay announced his decision to return the state's 'Best Theatre Director' award, claiming that the government and police are attempting to conceal facts about the incident. He expressed his shame and distress over the state's handling of the situation, asserting that the award now feels like a 'burden'. Other prominent figures, including playwright Chandan Sen and actress Sanjita, have also chosen to return their state awards in solidarity with the ongoing protests. The protests have garnered widespread support, including from various theatre groups and community organizations, some of which have returned state grants and honorariums. The Calcutta High Court has called for a CBI investigation into the matter, reflecting the serious public outcry surrounding this incident. The discontent extends beyond the theatre community, with notable public figures like singer Shreya Ghoshal postponing events to join the protests.