Bhubaneswar, 8 December (H.S.) : Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of a college student who was burnt alive in Lanjiberna, Rajgangpur. Calling the incident “extremely heartbreaking,” Patnaik conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the departed soul.

Patnaik raised serious questions over the government’s alleged inaction, stating that the family had already informed authorities about receiving death threats, yet no preventive steps were taken. “It is shocking that even after prior warning, the government failed to act,” he said.

He further questioned how long the government would allow innocent lives to be lost in such horrific ways. Patnaik alleged that the rising number of such incidents in Odisha reflects the government’s apathy, which is emboldening criminals.

The Leader of Opposition said that people in the state are feeling unsafe while criminals roam freely. “This raises a serious question — whom is the government actually protecting?” he asked.

Demanding strict enforcement of law and order, Patnaik urged the state government to take immediate and stern action against the culprits and ensure justice for the victim’s family.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda