Will Congress Commemorate 'Shraddhanjali Divas' in Odisha on July 24?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Congress to observe ‘Shraddhanjali Divas’ on July 24.
- Tribute to the deceased FM College student and all victims of violence.
- Call for a Women’s Commission and judicial investigation.
- Encouragement for public participation through silent prayers.
- Establishment of a Women’s Grievance Cell to support complainants.
Bhubaneswar, July 18 (NationPress) The opposition Congress party has declared that it will commemorate ‘Shraddhanjali Divas’ throughout Odisha on July 24, which will coincide with the Ekadasah (11th day post-death ritual) of the deceased FM College girl student.
The announcement was made by Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) President Bhakta Charan Das during a meeting with the party’s Public Affairs Committee.
In a joint press conference with leaders from seven other political parties, Das stated that July 24 will be observed as ‘Shraddhanjali Divas’ to honor the young student and other women who have tragically lost their lives due to atrocities and systemic failures.
“Our women leaders will spearhead this observance. We urge all educational institutions, including colleges and universities, to hold a two-minute silence in memory of the victims and in pursuit of justice,” Das emphasized.
“We also invite all mothers and sisters across Odisha to engage in a one-minute silent prayer at home on that day,” he added.
Reiterating the party’s demands, Das called for the establishment of a Women’s Commission, a thorough judicial investigation, and the resignation of the Chief Minister in light of the incident.
He also announced the creation of a Women’s Grievance Cell where women throughout the state can file complaints.
“The Congress will make every effort to support the complainants and address their issues with utmost seriousness,” he stated.
AICC Odisha In-charge Ajay Lallu, who was also present, voiced full support for the state unit’s protest plans and criticized the state government for its failure to ensure women’s safety.
In a similar vein, the principal opposition party Biju Janata Dal (BJD) announced that it will conduct demonstrations at the RDC (Revenue Divisional Commissioner) offices in the three Revenue divisions of Odisha—Cuttack, Sambalpur, and Berhampur—demanding a judicial inquiry into the FM College incident on July 21.