Amid Odisha bandh, BJP MP Aparajita Sarangi defends state action in FM College case and vows justice

As the statewide Odisha bandh called by Congress and allied opposition parties disrupted public life across districts on Thursday, BJP leader and Bhubaneswar MP, Aparajita Sarangi, addressed a press briefing defending the state’s response in the Balasore self-immolation case.

Speaking from the party’s state headquarters in Bhubaneswar, Sarangi stated that the government took care of the student’s medical needs and the Chief Minister had directed all necessary steps for her treatment, including arrangements for an airlift if required.

The BJP MP asserted that immediate steps were taken under the Chief Minister’s directive and appealed to the public to acknowledge the actions already underway.

“There was no negligence in the girl’s treatment. The Chief Minister had instructed authorities to ensure the best medical care without delay,” said Sarangi.

“We are beyond hurt and distressed following the passing of the victim. However, the state government left no stone unturned in extending the necessary medical care to her. Further action against the accused was taken swiftly, and I can assure that justice will be handed out without fail,” she added.

Balasore Case: Political Flashpoint

The tragic death of the Fakir Mohan Autonomous College student in Balasore, who succumbed to burn injuries after setting herself ablaze following alleged harassment by the college’s HOD of Education, has become a political flashpoint.

The incident sparked public anger and led to today’s Odisha bandh, spearheaded by Congress and supported by seven other parties.

While the opposition accused the state administration of inaction and cover-up, Sarangi countered that such narratives ignored the swift legal and administrative measures already taken.

“Justice should not be politicised. When action has already been taken, disruption of life through a bandh does more harm to ordinary citizens than good,” she said.

BJD, Congress Trying To Be Relevant

On the two consecutive days of protests by the BJD and the Odisha Bandh today by Congress and allied parties, Aparijita Sarangi condemned the move and labelled it as one done for political mileage.

"In recent days, the behaviour and protests being done by the BJD and Congress are simply to grab news headlines and stay politically relevant. We strongly condemn such acts. I believe that every 4.5 crore Odia who thinks rationally would also condemn such acts. We want peace and a positive environment," she said.

Public Suffering Sparks Debate on Bandh Ethics

As the bandh unfolded, widespread public inconvenience was reported across Odisha, from stranded students missing national exams to patients denied timely medical access.

In one instance, a 60-year-old man trying to donate blood was blocked by protestors in Bhubaneswar. Meanwhile, in Balasore, a patient and his relative arriving from Angul were found in distress at a deserted bus stand, and were later aided by local residents.