The Congress party has declared its intent to gherao Parliament during the upcoming monsoon session starting July 21, demanding justice for Soumyashree Bisi, the student of Fakir Mohan Autonomous College who died in a self-immolation attempt allegedly driven by administrative apathy.
All India Mahila Congress President Alka Lamba made the announcement in Bhubaneswar, accusing the BJP-led Odisha government of systemic failures in safeguarding women and demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. “A young girl had to burn herself to seek justice. If that doesn’t shake the CM’s conscience, what will?” Lamba lashed out during a press briefing.
The Congress is rallying public support for a statewide bandh on July 17, urging citizens to participate and demand accountability from the ruling dispensation. Lamba also criticised the delayed medical treatment provided to the student, asserting that timely intervention might have saved her life.
Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition, reportedly spoke to the victim’s father, assuring him of unwavering support from the Congress party. The protest will extend into Parliament, where Congress intends to demand the imposition of President’s Rule in Odisha.
As the political heat intensifies, Lamba reaffirmed that the Congress movement would be peaceful but relentless: “We will continue until women in Odisha feel safe again.”
