TV
Protests led by the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) over the death of the Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College student intensified on Wednesday, with high-voltage demonstrations erupting in Bhubaneswar.
In the state capital, the agitation escalated into a standoff near Lower PMG Square as BJD workers clashed with police while attempting to march towards the Odisha Assembly and Lok Seva Bhawan.
Sources cited ground visuals and reported that security forces resorted to the use of water cannons and tear gas to disperse protestors after party workers breached the first set of barricades and attempted to force their way past a second cordon.
Further, over 100 BJD workers were detained at the scene as they tried to push through heavy security deployment in the high-security zone.
Protest in Bhubaneswar Targets Lok Seva Bhawan
BJD workers gathered in large numbers near PMG Square, raising slogans and demanding justice for the victim, alleging government’s ‘systemic failure’.
The party also demanded resignation of Odisha CM Mohan Majhi, State and Union Education Ministers, over their alleged failure in addressing the harassment complaint filed by the student prior to her death.
Protestors were seen holding banners and attempting to reach Lok Seva Bhawan, prompting a swift police response.
In anticipation of the protest, the Home Department had issued a directive asking all employees of Lok Seva Bhawan to report by 9:30 am, following which the main gate was ordered to be closed.
Enhanced security was deployed not only at Lok Seva Bhawan but also at Kharavela Bhawan, Rajiv Bhawan, and Krushi Bhawan.
Balasore Bandh Parallels Bhubaneswar Agitation
Simultaneously, normal life was brought to a standstill in Balasore as the BJD observed a 6 AM to 2 PM bandh.
The student had succumbed to severe burn injuries late on Tuesday night after reportedly setting herself ablaze on July 12. Her death prompted a scathing attack by opposition parties on the government, including an Odisha Bandh called by the Congress and other parties with demands for a complete statewide shutdown on July 17.
