Odisha CM urges elderly man not to talk of 'suicide' during grievance hearing
Published By : Chinmaya Dehury
| August 11, 2025 4:59 PM
Bhubaneswar, Aug 11: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday urged an elderly man not to speak of suicide over unresolved grievances, assuring him that the government would look into the matter with sincerity.
The comment came during a public grievance hearing session attended by senior officials and ministers.
The situation grew tense when an elderly man, identified as Jagabandhu Panda, emotionally stated that he would "prefer to die by suicide" due to his long-pending issues remaining unresolved. Visibly distressed by the remark, CM Majhi responded firmly but empathetically.
“If your grievances are genuine, they will definitely be looked into. I am here for all of you,” said Majhi. “Please do not speak of suicide — that is not the solution.”
The Chief Minister then personally heard Panda’s concerns and assured him that his case would be considered sincerely.
Speaking to reporters afterward, Panda explained that he has been working as a temporary employee with the Public Works Department (PWD) since 1993, earning ₹6,000 a month. He shared that his wife is paralyzed and his son is physically challenged, making it extremely difficult to manage daily life.
“In a moment of despair, I mentioned suicide. I regret saying that. But the Chief Minister did listen to me and gave me hope that my problems will be addressed,” he said.
The incident comes amid criticism of the BJP-led government following recent cases of self-immolation by young women over various issues. The opposition has accused the administration of failing to maintain law and order and effectively address public distress.
