Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], July 16 : Activists of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) staged a strong protest outside the Shimla Deputy Commissioner's office on Wednesday, demanding justice for a female student who was allegedly assaulted and later died in Odisha's Balasore district.
The protest, led by ABVP members, condemned what they called the "negligent and apathetic attitude" of the Odisha college administration in handling a sexual harassment complaint.
Aditi Aman, National Executive Member of ABVP, said the organisation is fighting for justice.
"A few days ago, a woman activist of ABVP studying at FM College in Odisha reported a case of sexual harassment against the Head of Department. She submitted a formal complaint and demanded strict action. However, the college administration failed to act appropriately," she said.
According to Aman, the victim protested for seven days, demanding action from the college's Internal Complaints Committee.
"When the report from the committee was due, the principal allegedly pressured her to compromise. Instead of supporting her, the administration threatened disciplinary action against her through the report," she added.
Aman stressed that had the administration and authorities taken timely action, the student might still be alive.
"Those who were arrested later could have been arrested earlier. If that had happened, our sister would be alive today. We are demanding strict action against all culprits and those on the committee who tried to cover it up," she said.
The ABVP also pointed fingers at the rival student organisation, NSUI.
"A photo has surfaced showing the main accused dining with senior NSUI leaders. While NSUI members are now protesting here, their leaders failed to support the girl when it mattered most in Odisha," Aman said.
She called for an impartial investigation and accountability.
"Strict action should be taken against such accused persons, and no one should be shielded politically or institutionally. Committees responsible for such mishandling must be held accountable." She said.
Highlighting that similar cases have been reported in Himachal Pradesh as well, including in Rajgarh, Bilaspur, Mandi, and Solan.
"Even in Himachal, Devbhoomi, such shameful incidents are rising. Teachers themselves are accused of harassing students. This reflects poorly on the state's law and order and education system. Strong action must be taken, not protection." She said.
Aman emphasised the growing fear among female students. "Incidents like these make women feel unsafe. We begin to question can we walk alone? Can we go somewhere in groups for months? Fear is growing, and we demand stronger protection for women," she added.
The protesting students demanded immediate action from the Odisha government.
"We demand that all those responsible from the accused to committee members who tried to suppress the truth -- be punished. Let this not happen again, either in Odisha or Himachal," she added.