Bhubaneswar: Apprehending possible law and order issues during Biju Janata Dal’s (BJD) planned gherao of Lok Seva Bhawan on Wednesday, the Odisha government issued a detailed advisory for enhanced security arrangements across major government buildings in Bhubaneswar.
In a communication issued by R K Sharma, Special Secretary of the Home Department, senior officers and departmental heads have been asked to instruct their staff to report to offices housed in Lok Seva Bhawan, Kharavela Bhawan, Rajiv Bhawan, Krushi Bhawan, and the Heads of Department Building before 9.30 am on Wednesday to ensure smooth entry before access points are regulated.
Notably, BJD has announced the protest following the death of Soumyashree Bisi, a student from Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College in Balasore, who set herself ablaze alleging harassment. She died during treatment on Tuesday night while undergoing treatment at AIIMS Bhubaneswar. BJD is demanding justice for the victim and accountability from the state administration.
As part of the security protocol, the front gates of Lok Seva Bhawan will be closed at 9.30 am on July 16. Entry will be allowed only through the rear gate, and the connecting gate between the Red Building and Lok Seva Bhawan will remain open.
As per the communication, strict ID and pass verification will be enforced. Vehicles with car passes will require valid entry authorisation.
In case of any untoward incident, departments are directed to immediately contact the Special Secretary, Home Department or the Additional DCP, Secretariat Security at their respective office numbers.
Visitor entry will be restricted, with passes issued only to those with prior appointments and urgent official work, based on recommendations from the concerned department.
“Only persons with prior appointments and pressing official matters will be issued entry passes, based on the recommendation of the concerned department and approval by the Special Secretary of the Home Department,” the communication said.
All employees have been instructed to remain in their seats and minimize unnecessary movement within office premises during the protest.
