Bhubaneswar: Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) President Bhakta Charan Das today announced a series of initiatives focusing on women’s safety and justice in the state.

Addressing the media, Das informed that a dedicated women’s grievance cell will soon be formed at the Congress Bhawan in Bhubaneswar, along with the launch of a separate mobile app to address women’s safety concerns.

The proposed app will allow women in distress across Odisha to file complaints directly, with Congress assuring that it will work towards resolving the issues reported through the platform.

As a mark of tribute, the Congress party will observe ‘Shraddhanjali Divas’ across the state on July 24, coinciding with the post-death ritual day of Soumyashree Bisi, a 20-year-old student of Fakir Mohan (FM) Autonomous College in Balasore, who attempted self-immolation on July 12 over alleged harassment and later succumbed to burn injuries at AIIMS Bhubaneswar on July 14 while undergoing treatment.

Mahila Congress members will observe the day at various locations with silent prayers, particularly in colleges and universities, Das said and appealed for two minutes of silence to be observed in memory of all young women who have recently lost their lives to murders or suicides.

“We demand a judicial inquiry into these cases under the supervision of the Supreme Court and urge the formation of a women’s commission to address these issues. Only justice can bring peace to the souls of the victims,” Das said.

He also said that Congress will organise special meetings on women's safety in four major locations of the state.

Das added that after the July 24 programmes, eight Left parties supporting the Congress will hold a joint meeting to decide the next course of action.