Political Tensions Rise in Odisha Following Student's Tragic Death

Political Fallout from a Student's Death

Bhubaneswar: The tragic self-immolation of a 20-year-old college student in Odisha has sparked a fierce exchange between the ruling BJP and the opposition BJD regarding the circumstances surrounding her death, which was linked to alleged sexual harassment by a faculty member.

The student, enrolled in the second year of the B.Ed program at Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College in Balasore, succumbed to her injuries at AIIMS-Bhubaneswar on Monday night after setting herself on fire on July 12, protesting the lack of action against the accused professor.

As the state mourns her loss, BJP leaders have accused the opposition of exploiting the situation, with Bhubaneswar MP and BJP spokesperson Aparajita Sarangi criticizing Congress leaders from Delhi for allegedly causing unrest in Odisha.

Sarangi specifically called out Mahila Congress president Alka Lamba and Odisha Congress in-charge Ajay Kumar Lallu for their involvement.

She also directed her criticism towards BJD president and Leader of the Opposition Naveen Patnaik, suggesting that he was insincere in his condolences, stating, "Respected Naveen Patnaik Ji is shedding crocodile tears over the death of the female student. There have been many such incidents during the 24 years of the BJD government from 2000 to 2024."

In response, BJD vice-president Snehangini Chhuria and former MP Rajashree Mallick defended Patnaik, asserting that the BJD government has made significant strides in promoting women's rights and justice in the state.

Mallick emphasized that Sarangi, as a female leader, should focus on ensuring justice for the victim rather than engaging in political blame games.

Sarangi countered by highlighting the actions taken by the BJP government following the incident, including the suspension and arrest of the accused teacher, Samira Kumar Sahoo, and the college principal, Dillip Ghose.

She noted that both the health and higher education ministers maintained communication with the victim's family, and that President Droupadi Murmu had visited her in the burn unit.

Sarangi also mentioned a complaint from the victim's brother, who expressed concerns about feeling unsafe due to the actions of BJD and Congress members.

BJD leaders Chhuria and Mallick criticized Sarangi's remarks, accusing her of politicizing the tragedy for personal gain and questioning the inaction of the police regarding the victim's earlier complaints.

Chhuria pointed out that the victim had sought help from various authorities, including local MPs and the chief minister, but felt neglected, raising questions about the government's responsiveness.