A statewide bandh was observed in Odisha today, July 17, 2025, as opposition parties, led by the Congress, protested the death of Soumyashree Bisi, a 20-year-old student of Fakir Mohan Autonomous College in Balasore. The student had attempted self-immolation due to alleged sexual harassment by a teacher.
Bandh Impact:
- Transportation: Bus services have been suspended at major terminals in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, causing traffic disruptions.
- Shops and Markets: Many businesses have shut down, with protesters forcing some to close.
- Trains: Train services have been affected, with protesters targeting railway infrastructure.
- Tourists: Visitors in Puri and Konark are stranded due to the protests.
Security Measures:
- Tight Security: The Assembly and Lok Seva Bhavan have been placed under heavy security.
- Police Escort: Ministers and officials have been escorted to the Public Service Building.
Demands and Reactions:
- Resignation Demand: The Congress party has demanded the resignation of the State Education Minister and a judicial investigation into the incident.
- Congress Leader's Statement: Odisha State Congress President Bhakta Charan Das called for the bandh, terming the incident a "systemic failure" and "institutional murder".
- Rahul Gandhi's Reaction: Congress MP Rahul Gandhi condemned the student's death as an "organised murder by the BJP's system".