Why is Odisha's State Government Facing Backlash Over Self-Immolation Case?
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Synopsis
Following a tragic incident where a college student self-immolated in protest against sexual harassment, the Opposition in Odisha has called for a statewide bandh. This event has sparked outrage and raised serious questions about the government's response and accountability.
Key Takeaways
- Tragic incident highlights systemic failures in response to harassment.
- Opposition unites to demand justice and accountability.
- Calls for a judicial inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the case.
- Public pressure is mounting on the state government.
- Political tensions are escalating as the situation unfolds.
Bhubaneshwar, July 15 (NationPress) The Opposition parties have declared a statewide 'bandh' on July 17, calling for justice for a 20-year-old college student who tragically lost her life due to severe burn injuries after she self-immolated in protest against the lack of action regarding her complaints of sexual harassment by a professor.
The second-year Integrated B.Ed student from Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College in Balasore suffered from 95 percent burns after setting herself on fire on Saturday.
She passed away on Monday at AIIMS Bhubaneswar, prompting widespread protests and political uproar across the state.
The incident has heightened political tensions, with the Opposition blaming the BJP-led state government for “systemic and administrative failures.”
Congress state president Bhakta Charan Das stated to IANS, “This incident signifies a profound systemic failure. Despite the girl’s attempts to reach out to numerous authorities -- including the MLA, MP, SP, Collector, Education Minister, and even the CM's Office -- there was no response. She even recorded a video message 15 days earlier, which went unacknowledged.”
“This tragedy transcends a personal loss; it represents an institutional collapse -- a failure of the government, human dignity, and constitutional duty,” he emphasized.
He further mentioned, “The Opposition parties have united to announce a 'bandh' on July 17 to ensure justice is served and to prevent such incidents from recurring with any other student.”
CPI(M) Odisha State Secretary Suresh Chandra Panigrahi labeled the incident as “an institutional murder,” asserting that while the immoral lecturer is primarily to blame, the principal also bears responsibility. “No action was taken even after the girl lodged complaints with MPs, MLAs, and ministers,” he stated.
Requiring a judicial inquiry, Panigrahi expressed, “The local MP, MLA, district collector, and SP must be included in the investigation. The Higher Education Minister should resign immediately on moral grounds. The Mohan Majhi government has failed and lacks the moral authority to continue. We demand compensation for the victim's family.”
Biju Janata Dal (BJD) spokesperson Ipsita Sahoo held the state government accountable as well.
“The doctors indicated from the outset that survival chances were extremely low. Yet, the government failed to approach the situation with sensitivity. What was BJP Yuva Morcha president Abhilash Panda doing at the hospital? Why was there chaos created by BJP workers during the last rites?” she questioned.
Sahoo accused the government of a cover-up and demanded the resignation of the Higher Education Minister, stating, “This incident conveys a perilous message -- that anything can happen, and the government will remain apathetic. The Chief Minister must take responsibility and resign. Such a situation has never occurred in Odisha before.”
She also called for accountability from the local MLA, MP, and district officials associated with the case, and insisted on a thorough review of the CCTV footage from the college.
The Opposition is now rallying for a robust, unified protest and warned that the government will be “forced to succumb” to public pressure.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the gravity of this incident. The actions and inactions of government officials not only reflect their accountability but also highlight the urgent need for systemic reforms to ensure the safety and dignity of all students. The nation must unite to advocate for justice and ensure that such tragedies do not repeat in the future.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the student's self-immolation?
The student set herself ablaze in protest against alleged sexual harassment by a professor, citing inaction from multiple authorities.
What action has the Opposition taken?
The Opposition has announced a statewide 'bandh' on July 17 to demand justice and accountability from the government.
What are the demands of the Opposition?
They are demanding a judicial probe, resignation of the Higher Education Minister, and compensation for the victim's family.
How has the government responded?
Biju Janata Dal spokesperson Ipsita Sahoo criticized the government for its lack of sensitivity and handling of the situation.
What are the implications of this incident?
The incident sheds light on systemic failures within the educational and governmental framework, sparking widespread outrage and calls for reform.
