Bhubaneswar: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has launched a scathing attack on the State Government, alleging a “weak, apathetic, and irresponsible” approach to the rising incidents of rape and atrocities against tribal girls. The party expressed deep distress over the continued occurrence of such crimes, particularly in light of the state having a Chief Minister from the tribal community.
The BJD’s condemnation comes in the wake of a recent incident involving the rape of an 8-year-old girl at the Guneiguda ST & SC Girls’ Hostel in Lamtaput Block, Koraput District. The party alleges that despite repeated media reports of such incidents, the state government has failed to take serious remedial or punitive action. Furthermore, they accuse the government of attempting to shield the perpetrators rather than ensuring justice.
On May 3rd, a BJD representative team visited the site of the incident, meeting with the victim and her family. The team conveyed their condolences and assured the family of the party’s commitment to securing swift and effective justice.
Today, a high-level BJD delegation visited the Regional Office of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes in Nayapalli and submitted a formal demand for justice. The delegation strongly urged the commission to ensure that the perpetrators of the brutal rape at the Guneiguda ST & SC Girls’ Hostel receive appropriate and exemplary punishment. They also demanded strict action against the Headmistress of the hostel for her alleged gross negligence.
Furthermore, the delegation called for a strong directive to be issued to the SC & ST Development Department to implement measures that ensure accountability and prevent future lapses.
The BJD delegation comprised prominent leaders including former Minister Tukuni Sahu; former Lok Sabha Member, Sharmistha Sethi; Rajashree Mallick; former Chairperson of the Women’s Commission, Lopamudra Baxipatra;arayan Jena; Manasi Sundararaya; Basanti Singh; Tunibala Dey, and Media Co-ordinator, Dr.Lenin Mohanty and Dr.Priyabrat Majhi among other senior party officials.
Media Coordinator Dr. Priyabrat Majhi pointed out that the party’s action underscores the poor handling of tribal affairs and the issue of tribal safety in the state and BJD places significant pressure on the State Government to address the allegations of inaction.