FM College student’s death: Political tensions escalate ahead of Odisha bandh, BJD demands CM’s resignation

The death of a student at Balasore Fakir Mohan Autonomous College, has sparked political unrest in Odisha, with the BJD demanding resignations from CM Mohan Majhi and others, accusing them of failing to prevent the tragedy.

Balasore FM College tragedy: Timeline of harassment allegations, neglect and the death of a student

Family, village of the victim mourns her death

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The tragic death of Balasore Fakir Mohan Autonomous College student has triggered a political firestorm in Odisha. Following her passing late last night, Opposition parties have mounted direct jabs at the Odisha government, with the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) demanding resignations of top office-bearers, including CM Mohan Majhi.

At a press conference on Tuesday, the BJD launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led state government, demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, State Higher Education Minister and local legislators, holding them morally accountable for the institutional failure that led to the girl student's death.

BJD Steps Up Pressure

Labelling the Odisha government as a ‘silent spectator,' the BJD alleged that it failed to provide justice to the young woman, who succumbed to severe burn injuries after attempting self-immolation in front of her college Principal’s office on July 12.

BJD leaders also said they would now take to the streets to demand accountability and institutional reforms.

“The girl had tagged Odisha CM, Union Education Minister, and State Education Minister in an appeal for justice. She had also sought the assistance of the local BJP MP. None responded to her. All of them are responsible for her death and should resign immediately,” said BJD MLA and leader Byomkesh Ray.

Ray’s comments came just hours after the Congress party issued calls for an Odisha Bandh on July 17. It requested the cooperation of the public and institutions and demanded a total shutdown.

BJP Dismisses Move as Political Opportunism

Responding sharply, BJP youth wing state president, Abhilash Panda, dismissed the BJD’s accusations as cynical opportunism. He questioned the BJD’s silence when the student was struggling for justice.

“Where were they when she was fighting her battle? They are trying to exploit her death for political mileage,” Panda said, accusing the BJD of engaging in political theatrics.

Panda also reiterated the state government's steps taken so far, including the arrest of the accused teacher Sameer Ranjan Sahoo, suspension and eventual arrest of Principal Dillip Ghosh, and constitution of a high-level inquiry Committee. He also said that action was being taken in accordance with the law and urgency.

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