Odisha Congress to Hold Torch Rallies Demanding Justice for Women

Bhubaneswar, Apr 3: The Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) has announced a series of torch rallies across the state, demanding justice for women and action against rising crimes. OPCC President Bhakta Charan Das declared that the rallies will take place at every block level on April 15 and at district headquarters on April 21.

Addressing the media in Bhubaneswar on Thursday, Das accused the BJP-led state government of failing to ensure justice for women and their families, who, he alleged, are subjected to oppression, rape, abduction, and murder. He also criticized both the BJD and BJP governments for deceiving the women of Odisha while suppressing the voices raising concerns about their safety.

“The BJP government in Odisha is tarnishing the state’s reputation by ignoring the atrocities against women. Instead of ensuring safety for young girls, they are being pushed into darkness,” Das remarked.

He further stated that Congress has actively protested for justice, including gheraoing the Chief Minister’s residence, District Collector offices, and the Assembly. On April 1, Odisha Day, the party organized a candlelight march at railway stations and bus stands to highlight the plight of 60,000 missing women.

Das slammed the government for dismissing Congress MLAs’ demand for a house committee to investigate the increasing crimes against women. He argued that instead of a house committee, the government could have constituted a five-member ministerial committee or a special task force of IAS or IPS officers to address the issue.

Urging women across Odisha to stay vigilant, Das warned that Congress would intensify its agitation if the government failed to introduce a special policy or law to curb crimes against women. He appealed to women from villages to join the movement by lighting candles in their homes and communities in solidarity with the victims.

Following the torch rallies, the Congress plans to gherao District Magistrate offices and organize 10-km-long marches in 35 organizational districts. The party reaffirmed its commitment to fighting until the women of Odisha receive justice.