What Led to the Tragic Suicide of a Student at FM College?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Student Safety: Highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures in educational institutions.
- Political Responsibility: The role of political parties in addressing systemic failures.
- Public Awareness: Raising awareness about issues of harassment and abuse.
- Community Action: Encouraging collective action for justice and reform.
- Judicial Accountability: The importance of a thorough investigation into the incident.
Bhubaneswar, July 15 (NationPress) The tragic act of self-immolation by Soumyashree Bisi, a B.Ed student from FM Autonomous College in Balasore, has sparked significant political unrest in Odisha. The Opposition Congress and seven other political factions have announced their plan to stage a statewide ‘Odisha Bandh’ on July 17, calling for justice for the young victim.
During the announcement, Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) President Bhakta Charan Das emphasized that the bandh has the backing of all opposition parties and like-minded groups.
“This is not merely a political issue; it is about standing with our daughters. Every educational institution is at risk if we fail to act decisively,” he stated.
In a strong condemnation, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha and senior Congress MP Rahul Gandhi criticized the Odisha government for allegedly protecting the offenders.
“The death of a daughter in her fight for justice in Odisha is tantamount to murder by the BJP's regime. This courageous student spoke out against sexual harassment, yet instead of receiving justice, she faced threats, torment, and humiliation,” remarked LoP Gandhi.
He further accused those in power of failing to safeguard her.
“As has been the case, the BJP's regime continued to shield the guilty, forcing an innocent girl to resort to self-immolation. This is not a suicide; it is a systematic murder by the establishment. Modi ji, whether it's Odisha or Manipur, the daughters of our nation are suffering, and your silence is deafening. The country demands your response; India’s daughters deserve safety and justice,” added LoP Gandhi.
The Congress party is also planning candlelight vigils across the state to honor the student and advocate for justice.
Das has called for the immediate arrest of all accountable parties, including administrative leaders and college officials, and urged for a High Court-monitored judicial inquiry into the incident.