Political Parties Call for Odisha Bandh Following Student's Tragic Death
In response to the tragic death of a student who self-immolated in Odisha, at least eight political parties, including Congress, have called for a statewide shutdown. The student had alleged sexual harassment by a professor, and her death has sparked protests demanding accountability from the state government. BJD leaders have accused officials of attempting to cover up the incident, while Chief Minister Mohan Chandra Majhi announced compensation for the victim's family. This incident has raised serious concerns about safety on college campuses and the need for immediate action against those responsible.
Jul 15, 2025, 12:53 IST
Political Response to Student's Death
At least eight political parties, including Congress, have announced a statewide shutdown in Odisha following the tragic death of a student who self-immolated. This announcement came just hours after protests by Congress and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) activists outside the AIIMS in Bhubaneswar, where the student had been receiving treatment since Saturday, July 12. The 20-year-old student from Fakir Mohan Autonomous College had set herself on fire last week, alleging that no action was taken regarding her complaint of sexual harassment against a professor. After suffering burns over 95% of her body, she was declared dead late Monday night.
Protests and Demands for Accountability
During the protests outside AIIMS, party members accused the state government of attempting to cover up the incident and demanded the dismissal of Higher Education Minister Surya Banshi Suraj. BJD leader Sulta Dev questioned, "Why was the post-mortem conducted at night? The body was brought at night to prevent anyone from knowing." He also mentioned that a delegation of BJD leaders met with President Droupadi Murmu to request intervention in the matter.
BJD President Naveen Patnaik expressed deep sorrow over the student's death and urged the Odisha Governor to take action against the college administration and those in power who failed to address the student's pleas. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Chandra Majhi announced on Tuesday a compensation of 2 million rupees for the family of the student. According to a statement from the Chief Minister's office, Majhi directed the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident to ensure that all culprits are punished according to the law. Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati also expressed his condolences regarding the student's death.
Call for Action and Reflection
In a post on social media platform 'X', he stated, "I am shocked to hear about the untimely death of a student from Fakir Mohan Autonomous College. Her death is not just an unfortunate incident; it is a clear signal of the urgent need to take necessary steps for the safety of our campuses." He added, "Strict action will be taken under the law. The guilty will not be spared and will face severe punishment. My condolences are with the grieving family. May God give them strength during this unbearable time."