Rahul Gandhi Slams PM Modi’s Silence Over Odisha Student’s Death, Demands Accountability

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, following the tragic death of an Odisha college student who had set herself on fire after allegedly facing sexual harassment by a professor.

The student, who had been battling for life at AIIMS Bhubaneswar, succumbed to her injuries, sparking outrage and political criticism across the country.

Reacting strongly, Gandhi said the Prime Minister’s continued silence on such grave issues was unacceptable. “The daughters of this country are burning and dying, while the Prime Minister sits silent. India doesn’t want silence, it wants answers,” he posted on social media.

The incident has triggered widespread condemnation and demands for justice. The student had accused a faculty member of sexual harassment, and her death has raised serious concerns about the failure of institutional mechanisms in ensuring student safety and justice.

Rahul Gandhi’s remarks add to the mounting pressure on the government, both at the state and central levels, to act decisively. The opposition has demanded a thorough investigation, accountability of college authorities, and swift action against the accused professor.

Earlier, the National Commission for Women (NCW) had also taken suo motu cognisance of the case and sought an action-taken report from the Odisha DGP within three days.

The incident has become a flashpoint in the broader debate on women’s safety, institutional apathy, and political accountability.