Bhubaneswar: Anticipating possible law and order issues during the Biju Janata Dal’s (BJD) planned gherao of Lok Seva Bhawan on July 16, the Odisha government has issued a detailed advisory for enhanced security arrangements across major government buildings in the capital.
In an official communication issued by R.K. Sharma, Special Secretary of the Home (Special Section) 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 tomorrow to ensure smooth entry before access points are regulated.
The protest, organised by the BJD, is being staged in response to the recent death of Soumyashree Bisi, a student from Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College in Balasore, who allegedly attempted self-immolation following sexual harassment. She died during treatment on July 14. The 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.
Strict ID and pass verification will be enforced. Vehicles with car passes will require valid entry authorization.
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.
All employees have been instructed to remain in their seats and minimize unnecessary movement within office premises during the protest.
The directive underscores the government’s preparedness for a potentially volatile situation, as political temperatures rise over the controversial death that has triggered statewide protests and demands for judicial intervention.
