Bhubaneswar: In a massive display of public outrage, the Biju Yuba Janata Dal and Biju Chhattra Janata Dal today organized simultaneous protest demonstrations across numerous colleges and universities in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, and indeed, all colleges and universities throughout Odisha.
The protests, held from 10:00 AM to 02:00 PM, aimed to highlight the alarming rise in rape, murder, and other heinous crimes against women in the state, and to demand urgent action from authorities.
Students and youth activists from the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) gathered at key educational institutions, including Ramadevi Women’s University, Maharshi College of Natural Law, Rajdhani College, College of Basic Science (OUAT), Kamala Nehru College, Utkal University (Vani Vihar), and BJB Autonomous College in Bhubaneswar.
Similarly, in Cuttack, strong contingents of protesters assembled at Ravenshaw University, Christ College, Netaji Subhas Bose Memorial City College, Sailabala Women’s College, Indira Gandhi Women’s Degree College, Emarti Devi Women’s Degree College, JKBK College, and Choudwar College.
Protesters carried placards, chanted slogans, and voiced their deep concern over the deteriorating law and order situation, particularly concerning women’s safety. Many students reportedly boycotted classes and wore black badges as a symbol of their protest.
Leaders from the Biju Yuba Janata Dal and Biju Chhattra Janata Dal addressed the gatherings, condemning the alleged inaction of the current government in curbing the escalating crime rates against women. They emphasized that the protests were a collective voice demanding immediate and concrete measures to ensure the safety, dignity, and justice for women across the state.
The demonstrations come amidst growing public apprehension following recent reports of a surge in crimes against women in Odisha. The protesting student and youth wings stressed the need for a robust and proactive approach from the administration to protect women and restore a sense of security.
The widespread nature of today’s protests underscores the intensity of public sentiment on this critical issue and is expected to put significant pressure on the authorities to address the concerns raised by the Biju Yuba Janata Dal and Biju Chhattra Janata Dal, said Dr.Priyabrata Majhi, Media Coordinator BJD.