‘Give me justice or grant me Euthanasia’: Divyang woman protests in Odisha

A differently-abled woman staged a dramatic protest outside the District Collector’s office in Balasore on Monday, demanding justice and, failing that, permission for euthanasia. Champabati Panda, a resident of the Notipatna area, sat on a dharna within the premises of the Collectorate, alleging prolonged inaction by the authorities over her grievance.

According to Champabati, her neighbour has allegedly encroached upon a narrow passage that provides access to her house. The pathway, she claims, is the only convenient route for her movement. 

Encroachment By Neighbour

Due to the alleged encroachment, she has been facing immense hardship in commuting to and from her residence. Being physically challenged, the obstruction has reportedly made her daily life extremely difficult.

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Champabati stated that she had repeatedly approached the district administration and also submitted complaints to the Chief Minister’s grievance cell seeking intervention. However, she alleged that despite multiple appeals, no concrete action has been taken to resolve the issue. 

No Response From Officials

Frustrated over the lack of response and relief, she resorted to a sit-in protest and raised the emotional demand for euthanasia if justice could not be delivered.

“I have met the CM at least thrice and requested him for Euthanasia if he cannot provide me justice. I have also posted on X (formerly known as Twitter) tagging President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Later, I also requested Odisha CM for justice, failing which I want Euthanasia,” the woman stated.

The protest drew attention from passersby and officials present at the Collectorate. As of now, no official statement has been issued by the district administration regarding the allegations.