Bhubaneswar: The Women’s Wing of the Odisha Congress staged a massive protest on Wednesday against the alleged surge in crimes against women across the state. The demonstration turned tense as protestors clashed with police personnel at Lower PMG while attempting to march toward the Odisha Legislative Assembly to gherao it.
Led by Odisha Pradesh Mahila Congress (OPMC) President Meenakshi Bahinipati, the protestors raised slogans against the BJP-led state government, accusing it of failing to ensure women’s safety. In a symbolic gesture, they also pelted ‘Marigold Flowers’ during the protest.
“This government has completely failed to provide safety to women. A girl in Balasore died by self-immolation after she repeatedly requested action, but her plea was ignored. From colleges to offices, women are unsafe. Even in the state capital, a woman constable was murdered inside a police department office. The government is silent on these issues,” said Meenakshi Bahinipati while speaking to the media.
She further added that the protest was also symbolic ahead of Durga Puja, stating, “Women represent ‘Maa Shakti’ and yet in Odisha, women are not given the respect and protection they deserve.”
Senior Congress leader and Jeypore MLA Tara Prasad Bahinipati also slammed the government, saying, “Inside and outside the Assembly, we are raising our voices. The number of rape, molestation, and violence cases is increasing every day, and the government is doing nothing. It is shameful. Congress will continue to fight for justice for women in Odisha.”
A Congress party worker alleged that the government was trying to suppress dissent.
“This government is afraid and is deploying police forces to stop our peaceful protest. The law and order situation has collapsed. We will continue our agitation until the government ensures women’s safety,” the worker said.
Senior Congress leader Suresh Kumar Routray also joined the protest, citing alarming statistics.
“70 minor girls were found pregnant in school hostels and 372 girls have been raped and murdered. Over 60,000 women are missing in the state. This is unacceptable. The government makes big promises, but nothing changes on the ground. Today, women from across Odisha have come together to demand action and justice,” he said.
The protest highlighted increasing public concern over women’s safety and law enforcement in the state.
