Why is Mahila Congress Protesting Against Rising Crimes Against Women in Odisha?
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Synopsis
In a powerful demonstration, the Mahila Congress rallied in Bhubaneswar to spotlight the escalating violence against women in Odisha. This event underscores the urgent need for government action to protect women and ensure their safety in the state.
Key Takeaways
- Mahila Congress protested against violence towards women.
- Hundreds of women participated in the rally.
- Protesters criticized government inaction.
- Incidents of sexual violence are on the rise in Odisha.
- Demands for women's safety are growing louder.
Bhubaneswar, Sep 24 (NationPress) The Mahila Congress, the women's division of the Congress party, organized a significant protest on Wednesday at Lower PMG in the capital city of Bhubaneswar, addressing the alarming increase in violence against women within the state.
Numerous women Congress activists from various regions of Odisha assembled in the Lower PMG area, brandishing banners and placards while chanting anti-government slogans.
They criticized the state administration for its inability to restrain the escalating violence against women, which includes alarming instances of sexual assault. As the protesters attempted to advance towards the Odisha Assembly, they breached the barricades set up by the Commissionerate Police. However, security forces intervened to halt their movement. Subsequently, several Congress leaders and activists were detained by the Commissionerate Police to manage the situation.
Speaking to reporters, Meenakshi Bahinipati, the Odisha Women Congress President, stated that the BJP-led state government has failed to ensure the safety and protection of women, prompting the party to resort to these protests.
“The government is incapable of guaranteeing safety for women in our state, which is why we are demonstrating. Daily incidents of rape and murder are occurring. Until the government prioritizes women's safety, we will persist in our protests,” Bahinipati emphasized.
Condemning the government's inaction regarding the surge in crimes against women, Congress leader Yashir Nawaz criticized the state administration for failing to safeguard women despite numerous reports of gang rapes, murders, and other crimes across districts such as Koraput, Balasore, and Gopalpur.
“Women are vulnerable, and the administration has displayed utter negligence. This state has never experienced such injustice before,” Nawaz asserted.
Simultaneously, Congress MLAs within the Odisha Assembly caused a disruption near the podium of Speaker Surama Padhy, voicing concerns over the increasing crimes against women in the state. The Congress members, holding placards, shouted slogans demanding enhanced security for women and protection against violence and crimes.
Point of View
The rising violence against women in Odisha is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention. The Mahila Congress's protest reflects a broader concern about women's safety across India. It is essential for the government to not only acknowledge these issues but also take concrete steps to protect and empower women in society.
NationPress
24/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Mahila Congress protest?
The Mahila Congress protest was prompted by the increasing cases of violence against women in Odisha, including incidents of sexual abuse and murder.
Where did the protest take place?
The protest took place at Lower PMG in Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha.
What were the protesters demanding?
The protesters were demanding better safety measures for women and accountability from the state government regarding the rising violence against women.
Who is Meenakshi Bahinipati?
Meenakshi Bahinipati is the President of the Odisha Women Congress and a key speaker at the protest.
What actions did the police take during the protest?
The police erected barricades to control the crowd and detained several Congress leaders and workers to maintain order.
