Congress Blasts Odisha Govt Over FM College Harassment Case, Demands Minister’s Resignation
Bhubaneswar, July 13 (OT Webdesk)— A disturbing episode of alleged harassment at Fakir Mohan Autonomous College, Balasore, has ignited a firestorm of criticism against the Odisha government, following a female student’s suicide attempt by self-immolation.
The student, now battling for life with 95% burns, had reportedly filed a complaint weeks prior, which was allegedly ignored by authorities.
On Saturday, Congress MLAs led by Rama Chandra Kadam visited AIIMS Bhubaneswar to check on the victim’s condition.
Kadam held the government accountable, citing repeated calls for a House Committee on women’s safety that were dismissed in the Assembly.
Fellow MLA Sofia Firdous alleged that efforts were made to suppress the student’s complaint, demanding the resignation of Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj.
In response, the state government has suspended the college principal and department head, while the accused assistant professor has been arrested.
Minister Suraj personally visited the hospital, but opposition leaders insist systemic failures enabled the tragedy.
The incident has reignited a crucial debate over women’s safety in educational institutions, with Congress urging swift reforms and accountability to prevent such future catastrophes.
