'BANDH ALONE WON'T CHANGE ANYTHING'

Civil society leaders, students, activists call for prompt government action and stricter enforcement of laws to ensure safety of women

- ARINDAM GANGULY, OP

A statewide bandh brought Odisha to a standstill Thursday following the tragic self-immolation and death of a young female student who had reportedly faced sexual harassment and received no action from authorities despite multiple complaints.

The incident has triggered widespread anger, protests, and soul-searching across the state. Civil society leaders, students, and activists have united in grief and frustration — not only in mourning the loss but also condemning what many are calling a systemic administrative and societal failure.

However, they said calling a bandh to protest the tragedy is not enough to bring about a change in the system, or ensure safety to women.