Bhubaneswar: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) today reiterated its unwavering commitment to securing justice for Soumyashree, the Baleswar FM Autonomous College student whose tragic suicide has deeply saddened the entire state. Holding systemic failure squarely responsible for her untimely demise, the party announced a massive “Gherao” (picketing) of all RDC (Revenue Divisional Commissioner) offices across Odisha on July 21, marking an escalation in their ongoing series of protests.
At a press conference held this afternoon at Shankha Bhavan, BJD Senior Vice President Shri Debi Prasad Mishra passionately articulated the party’s resolve. “This unfortunate incident has deeply saddened the entire state, and the BJD is determined to fight for justice for the victim and her family,” Shri Mishra declared, emphasizing the gravity of the situation and the party’s dedication to the cause.
The tragic sequence of events began with Soumyashree being declared dead late on July 14. By the very next morning, July 15, the Biju Chhatra Janata Dal and Biju Yuba Janata Dal had already initiated statewide protests. These demonstrations intensified on July 16, with the BJD organizing a gherao of the Lok Seva Bhavan, during which police, allegedly under government instructions, reportedly attacked protestors.
Citing what they term as the state government’s irresponsibility and insensitivity, the BJD has put forth two key demands: the immediate resignation of the Higher Education Minister and a judicial inquiry into the incident by a sitting judge of the High Court.
Shri Mishra emphatically stated that the BJD’s agitation will only intensify in the days ahead until justice is unequivocally delivered to Soumyashree. Also present at the press conference were MLA Gautam Buddha Das, former MP Pradeep Majhi, and BJD senior general secretary Bhrugu Baxipatra, all standing in solidarity with the party’s firm stance. Dr. Priyabrata Majhi Media Co-ordinator, Biju Janata Dal coordinated the Media Meet.