BJP flays Oppn over bandh

Bhubaneswar: The BJP MP, Aparajita Sarangi, on Thursday criticised the Opposition for calling a Statewide bandh in Odisha, terming it an attempt to create political disturbance rather than providing constructive solutions in the wake of the self-immolation case.

Speaking to the media, BJP national spokesperson Sarangi said, “The death of a young student from FM (Autonomous) College on July 14 has deeply shocked us all. The government has responded to the situation within its constitutional and administrative framework. But instead of helping restore calm or suggesting positive solutions, the Congress and its allies are indulging in disruptive politics.”

The Bhubaneswar MP said the Odisha government responded swiftly and responsibly to the incident. She highlighted that the government took complete responsibility for the girl’s treatment. Sarangi also said that immediate disciplinary and legal action were taken against the accused faculty member, Samir Kumar Sahu, and the Principal of the College, Dillip Kumar Ghose, who were arrested and sent to jail.

She condemned the demand for the resignation of Odisha’s Higher Education Minister, calling it a diversionary tactic. “Such behaviour is unacceptable. This is not the time for street politics but for serious self-reflection by these parties,” Sarangi added. Slamming the Congress, she said, “The Congress was in power for 40 years, and the BJD has ruled for 24 years. What did they do to create a secure and enabling ecosystem for women? Why didn’t they ensure women’s safety then?”

Sarangi further said the Opposition BJD and Congress have no moral authority to question a newly-formed government led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who took charge just over a year ago. Criticising the Opposition for “politicising” the incident, she said, “Both BJD and Congress are now polluting the environment by using this tragedy for political mileage. They failed to build a safe ecosystem during their regimes. It’s time for them to introspect.” She concluded by expressing confidence in the BJP-led government’s intent and capacity to ensure justice and improve women’s safety across the State.