Cuttack (Odisha), July 13, 2025 (ANI): Speaking on Odisha's Balasore student self-immolation case, Congress leader Sofia Firdous on July 13 slammed Odisha government by calling it a grave concern and hoping that that this is enough proof to awaken the state government. “...The state government has been completely deflecting the criticism and allegations that are being levied against it. Time and again, this innocent girl has been raising the complaint...The authorities have failed to give her protection. Unfortunately, she is also a member of the ABVP and this clearly shows that when the people of the party, when the women of the party, are not safe, leaders are not able to protect them. What is the situation of women in the state? This is a grave concern. I hope this is enough proof to awaken the state government so that they can really understand that the law and order situation is not going in the right direction...They should take proper remedial measures as demanded by the Congress party, which includes the appointment of a state Women's Commission and also includes making reforms in the system and appointing a House committee as well,” said Sofia Firdous.
