Tear Gas, Water Cannons Used as BJD Protests Rock Bhubaneswar over Soumyashree’s Death

The protest escalated into a physical standoff near Lower PMG Square, with agitated party members attempting to breach security barricades in an effort to reach the Odisha Assembly and Lok Seva Bhawan. In response, the police deployed water cannons and tear gas to disperse the crowd, creating tense scenes that were captured by local media.

Hundreds of BJD workers had marched from Master Canteen Square toward the State Secretariat and attempted to break through the barricades when the police intervened.

Commissionerate Police confirmed the detention of over 100 BJD workers. Several leaders, including Priti Ranjan Gharei and Pranab Prakash Das, sustained minor injuries during skirmishes with security personnel.

The party is also observing an eight-hour bandh across Balasore district, demanding a judicial probe into the incident.

Senior BJD leaders condemned the government’s inaction, holding officials accountable for the tragedy. Vice-President Debi Prasad Mishra stated, “Those who ignored her plea must take moral responsibility and resign. This administration cannot remain silent.” MLA Susant Kumar Rout added, “Such a thing has never happened before. We demand justice and a judicial inquiry.”

Echoing the sentiment, party leader Snehangini Chhuria remarked, “A girl died asking for justice. The CM and ministers are unaware of what’s happening. They must resign.”

In response, the Commissionerate Police deployed drones for surveillance and reinforced security in surrounding government offices, including Rajiv Bhavan and Kharavela Bhavan. Police Commissioner S Dev Datt Singh was present on site to oversee the security arrangements. Employees entering Lok Seva Bhawan underwent strict identity verification.

As tensions simmer, the BJD vowed to intensify its protest until justice is delivered, framing the issue not just as a political conflict but a moral imperative.