Bhubaneswar: Stepping up attack on the BJP government in Odisha government over alleged rise in crimes against women in the state, BJD’s student and youth wings on Tuesday announced a statewide protest from August 1.
Addressing a press meet in Bhubaneswar, BJD leaders lashed out at the state government alleging that no concrete action has been taken in the case relating to the suicide of FM Autonomous College student in Balasore despite the formation of multiple probe panels.
Similar incidents have also taken place in Balanga area of Puri district, Tumudibandha in Kandhamal), Malkangiri, and other places of the state, they claimed, accusing the state government of failing to ensure justice for the victims.
As part of the protest to be held from August 1 to 8, students from colleges across the state will submit memorandums addressed to the Director General of Police (DGP) at their nearest police stations and the office of District Superintendents of Police.
The memorandums will highlight concerns over the safety of students both on and off campus, and demand immediate measures for the protection of women and girls in Odisha.
The campaign will intensify from August 9 to 14, starting with Kranti Divas, during which students will send open letters via postcards to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who also heads the Home Department, demanding justice for victims of violence and swift government action.
“The silence and inaction of the state government is unacceptable. The students will raise their voice in a democratic manner until justice is delivered,” said BJD MLA Byomakesh Ray.
The BJD leaders also alleged that the law and order situation in Odisha has collapsed during the BJP government.
Party MLA Devi Ranjan Tripathy warned that BJD would further intensify its protests if the state government fails to ensure a safe environment for girls on campuses.