Political Tensions Rise as Education Minister Criticizes Rahul Gandhi Over Tragic Incident in Odisha

Minister's Strong Response to Congress Leader

Bhubaneswar: On Tuesday, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of engaging in "cheap politics" following the tragic death of a college student in Balasore, Odisha.

Pradhan asserted that the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have consistently prioritized women's safety and justice, contrasting this with the Congress party's tendency to exploit tragedies for political gain.

This response came after Gandhi criticized the Prime Minister's silence regarding the incident, stating that the nation is seeking answers.

"The opportunistic politics displayed by Rahul Gandhi and the Congress regarding this tragic event is deeply regrettable. Using such a serious issue as a political tool showcases @RahulGandhi's narrow-mindedness," Pradhan expressed on X.

He further remarked that while the incident has deeply affected the nation, the Congress party has chosen to capitalize on it for political advantage.

Pradhan emphasized that the BJP government in Odisha stands firmly with the victim's family and assured that stringent actions would be taken against those responsible.

"Now is not the time for petty politics; it is crucial to ensure justice for the victim's family. Rahul Gandhi should promptly apologize to them for his thoughtless remarks," he stated.

The second-year B.Ed student from Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College succumbed to her injuries at AIIMS-Bhubaneswar on Monday night after battling for her life for three days.

She had set herself ablaze on campus on Saturday, protesting against the alleged inaction regarding a professor accused of sexual harassment.

In a Hindi post on X, Gandhi claimed that the student's death represents a "direct murder by the BJP system".

He praised the courageous student for speaking out against sexual exploitation, lamenting that instead of receiving justice, she faced threats and humiliation.

Gandhi accused those meant to protect her of oppressing her instead, stating, "The BJP system has repeatedly shielded the accused, forcing an innocent daughter to take such drastic measures."

"This is not a case of suicide; it is a systematic murder orchestrated by the system," he asserted.

"Modi ji, whether in Odisha or Manipur, the daughters of our nation are suffering, and you remain silent. The country demands answers, not silence," the former Congress president concluded.