New Delhi, July 29: Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MPs staged a protest on Tuesday at the Gandhi statue in Parliament, raising serious concerns over the alleged worsening law and order situation in Odisha under the newly formed BJP government.
Their demonstration focused particularly on the growing number of crimes against women and children.
Holding placards with slogans like “Mahilaon ki cheekh aur sarkar ki khamoshi” (The cries of women and the silence of the government) and “Odisha BJP ka shaasan, apradhiyo ki shaan” (BJP's rule in Odisha, a pride for criminals), the BJD MPs demanded immediate central intervention and called for a judicial inquiry into the recent incidents of violence.
Rajya Sabha MP Sasmit Patra, speaking on behalf of the party, stated, “Following the directive of our Party President, Naveen Patnaik ji, we, the MPs of BJD, held a protest at Mahatma Gandhi’s statue to express our deep anguish and call for urgent action from the Centre.”
He further added, “Odisha is facing a crisis. Women and children are no longer safe. The newly formed BJP government has failed to maintain law and order. Heinous crimes are going unchecked, and the government’s silence is both alarming and unacceptable.”
Citing disturbing examples, Patra mentioned a horrific incident in Puri, where a young student was set on fire. She is currently battling for her life at AIIMS Delhi. In another tragic case, a student attempted self-immolation after reportedly being denied justice.
“These are not isolated incidents,” Patra said. “They reveal a complete breakdown of governance and a shocking absence of accountability. The Odisha BJP government, led by Mohan Majhi, has shown appalling apathy and inaction.”
The BJD has called for a prompt and impartial judicial investigation into the recent crimes.
“Odisha deserves a government that prioritizes the safety and dignity of its people. Right now, the state is suffering under a leadership that remains indifferent as its citizens live in fear,” he said.
