Bhubaneswar, 16 July (H.S.): Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday reached out to the grieving family of Soumyashree, the 20-year-old student from Fakir Mohan Autonomous College in Balasore, who tragically ended her life after allegedly facing mental and sexual harassment by a lecturer.

In a heartfelt conversation with Soumyashree’s father, Gandhi expressed deep sorrow and solidarity. He assured the family that both he and the Congress party are fully committed to securing justice for their daughter.

“Spoke with the father of the brave daughter who lost her life in the fight for justice in Balasore, Odisha. In his voice, I felt his daughter’s pain, dreams, and struggle. Assured him that the Congress Party and I stand with them at every step. What happened is not only inhuman and shameful, but a wound to the entire society. We will ensure in every way that the victim’s family receives full justice,” the Congress MP tweeted.

Calling the incident “inhuman and shameful,” Gandhi condemned the circumstances that led to the young student’s death and urged accountability from authorities.

In response to the incident, the Congress party has announced a state-wide bandh in Odisha on July 17, demanding swift justice and systemic reforms to prevent such tragedies in the future.

The case has sparked widespread outrage across the state, drawing sharp criticism from opposition leaders and civil society groups, who are demanding a thorough and impartial investigation into the matter.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda