Will Justice Be Served in the Self-Immolation Case?
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Synopsis
In a heartbreaking incident that shook the nation, Rahul Gandhi speaks to the father of a B.Ed student who died after self-immolation due to sexual harassment. He assures the family of unwavering support and commitment to justice. Will this incident prompt significant change in the fight against harassment?
Key Takeaways
- Rahul Gandhi offers support to the victim's family.
- Nationwide outrage has prompted political action.
- The incident highlights serious issues regarding sexual harassment.
- Calls for justice are growing louder across the country.
- Political parties are mobilizing to address this pressing issue.
Bhubaneswar, July 16 (NationPress) Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi engaged in a conversation with the father of the female B.Ed student from FM Autonomous College in Balasore, who tragically passed away due to severe burn injuries while receiving treatment at AIIMS, Bhubaneswar. He pledged his unwavering support to the bereaved family.
In his message, Gandhi expressed, "I spoke with the father of the courageous daughter who lost her life in her pursuit of justice in Balasore, Odisha. I could feel the pain, aspirations, and struggles of his daughter in his voice. I assured him that both the Congress Party and I are with them at every turn. This incident is not only inhumane and disgraceful, but it also inflicts a deep wound on our society. We will do everything possible to ensure that the victim's family achieves complete justice," as he shared on his X handle.
Previously, Gandhi criticized the state BJP government, claiming that the student’s death was a direct result of fighting for justice, which he described as akin to murder perpetrated by the BJP's governance.
He further emphasized that the brave student had spoken out against sexual harassment, yet instead of receiving justice, she faced threats, torment, and relentless humiliation.
Earlier, Congress leaders in Odisha visited the student's family to offer their condolences and support.
Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee President Bhakta Charan Das and senior party leaders visited Balasore on Tuesday night to meet the grieving family of the deceased student from Fakir Mohan Autonomous College.
During their visit, Das expressed profound sorrow and solidarity, extending heartfelt condolences and assuring the family of the party’s support in their pursuit of justice.
The Congress party, along with seven other allied parties, has declared a statewide Odisha Bandh on July 17 to demand justice for Soumyashree.
The 20-year-old B.Ed student was hospitalized at AIIMS, Bhubaneswar, following a self-immolation attempt on Saturday due to harassment by Samir Kumar Sahu, the Head of the Department at her college.
The victim, who suffered over 90 percent burn injuries, succumbed to her wounds on Monday night.
This incident has sparked widespread outrage across the nation, with opposition parties holding the college administration and the state BJP government accountable for their negligence and indifference.
The opposition BJD has organized a 'Balasore Bandh' strike from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, advocating for justice for the student. Additionally, they plan to stage a gherao at the Lok Seva Bhavan (State Secretariat) in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday.
Point of View
This situation underscores the urgent need for accountability and systemic change in how cases of sexual harassment are addressed. The response of political leaders and the public outcry highlight the importance of supporting victims and ensuring justice. As a nation, we must reflect on our values and the mechanisms in place to protect the vulnerable.
NationPress
16/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the student's tragic self-immolation?
The student attempted self-immolation due to alleged sexual harassment by her department head, which she had bravely spoken against.
What support is being offered to the victim's family?
Rahul Gandhi and the Congress Party have assured the family of their full support in their pursuit of justice.
What actions are being taken by political parties in response?
The Congress Party and several allied parties are organizing statewide protests, including an Odisha Bandh, to demand justice for the student.
