Odisha Govt Issues Security Advisory Ahead of BJD’s Lok Seva Bhawan Gherao

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has stepped up security across key government buildings in the state capital ahead of the Biju Janata Dal’s (BJD) protest and gherao of Lok Seva Bhawan scheduled for Wednesday, July 16, in response to the tragic death of college student Soumyashree Bisi.

Advisory Issued to Government Offices

In a formal circular issued by R.K. Sharma, Special Secretary, Home (Special Section) Department, instructions have been sent to all senior officers and departmental heads to ensure their staff report to offices such as:

• Lok Seva Bhawan
• Kharavela Bhawan
• Rajiv Bhawan
• Krushi Bhawan
• Heads of Department Building

All employees must report before 9:30 AM to avoid disruptions as entry restrictions will take effect shortly afterward.

Key Security Measures Announced

• Front gates of Lok Seva Bhawan will close at 9:30 AM; only rear gate access permitted.
• The connecting gate between Red Building and Lok Seva Bhawan will remain open.
• Strict ID checks and car pass verifications will be enforced.
• Visitor entry will be allowed only with prior appointments for urgent official business.
• All staff have been advised to stay at their workstations and limit internal movement during the protest hours.
• In case of emergency, departments must contact the Special Secretary, Home Department or Additional DCP, Secretariat Security.

The protest stems from the death of 20-year-old B.Ed student Soumyashree Bisi, who succumbed to severe burn injuries at AIIMS Bhubaneswar on July 14. She had reportedly set herself on fire at Fakir Mohan Autonomous College in Balasore on July 12, alleging harassment by the Head of the Education Department.

The incident has triggered widespread outrage and calls for a judicial inquiry. The BJD, while in the Opposition, is demanding:

• Justice for Soumyashree
• Accountability from college authorities and the administration
• ₹2 crore compensation for the bereaved family

The government’s heightened security plan highlights the seriousness of the protest and the volatile political climate currently gripping the state.

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