Are BJD and Congress Raising Concerns Over Growing Crime Against Women in Odisha?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The protests reflect growing concerns over women's safety in Odisha.
- BJD and Congress leaders are demanding accountability from the state government.
- Protesters are advocating for urgent action to address violence against marginalized communities.
- The involvement of youth and student groups emphasizes the need for change.
- The protests are indicative of a broader national dialogue on women's rights and safety.
Bhubaneswar, June 25 (NationPress) Leaders from the Biju Janata Dal and Congress gathered on Wednesday to encircle the residence of Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, voicing their concerns over the alarming rise in crime against women in the state.
The Odisha Pradesh Youth Congress protested against the increasing atrocities faced by Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), the deteriorating law and order situation, and what they termed the attack on 'Odisha's Asmita' (Odisha's pride).
Supporters of the Youth Congress marched from AG Square to the Chief Minister's residence on Rajpath, chanting slogans and holding placards.
The Commissionerate Police intervened midway, detaining several demonstrators.
"The BJP government has utterly failed in Odisha. The law-and-order situation is in disarray. Dalit individuals have been stripped, beaten, and even forced to consume drain water. Despite Rahul Gandhi's intervention through social media, the government remains unrepentant. The Youth Congress will not stay silent. We are holding the Chief Minister's Office accountable through this gherao since the state government is shirking its responsibilities instead of safeguarding its citizens," stated Congress leader Yashir Nawaz.
In parallel, the Biju Yuva Janata Dal (BYJD) and Biju Chhatra Janata Dal (BCJD) organized protests and demonstrations statewide.
Members of the opposition BJD's youth and student wings protested near various colleges and universities across the region.
In Bhubaneswar, several student groups from different educational institutions participated in the protest in front of Utkal University, Maharishi College, BJB College, Rajdhani College, OUAT, and Ramadevi Women University, rallying against the rising violence targeting women.
"The surge in atrocities against women in Odisha is profoundly concerning. Numerous districts are reporting incidents of assault, harassment, and even mysterious deaths of women. The state government, under Chief Minister Majhi, has failed to ensure adequate protection or take decisive action. The situation necessitates immediate intervention and robust policies to safeguard women's safety and dignity. Through our protest, we demand accountability and justice,” asserted BJD leader Ipsita Sahoo.