Bhubaneswar: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) student and youth wings staged a state-wide protest today against the increasing incidents of crime against women in Odisha. Hundreds of college students joined the protest in front of various colleges and universities, burning tires and effigies at various places.
Begunia MLA Pradeep Sahu addressed the protesters, condemning the state government’s failure to ensure women’s safety. “The law and order situation in the state is in danger. No woman is safe here,” Sahu said, warning that the situation will worsen if the government doesn’t take immediate action.
The protests, part of the BJD’s All Odisha Student Strike, saw students boycotting classes, wearing black badges, and holding picketing demonstrations across the state. In Bhubaneswar, students from the Rajadhani College joined the protest, demanding immediate action to prevent crimes against women and ensure their protection, justice, and respect.
Students of the BJD also staged a protest in front of the Utkal University.
BJD leaders Byomkesh Ray and Devi Ranjan Tripathy criticized the BJP-led government for its alleged indifference to the rising crimes against women. “Since the BJP came to power, the law and order situation has steadily worsened. Every day, newspapers are filled with disturbing reports of young women being harassed, raped, kidnapped, or murdered,” Ray alleged.
The BJD cited recent incidents, including the gang rape of a college girl at Gopalpur sea beach, which have insulted Odisha on the world map. According to the BJD, over 15 women are victims of rape and torture every day.
