Citizens Unite to Tackle Rising Gender-Based Violence in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: A powerful community-driven movement took shape in Bhubaneswar as concerned citizens, activists, and survivors gathered for the inaugural session of Speak Against Violence, an initiative aimed at confronting the rising incidents of gender-based violence in Odisha. Held at Sahid Nagar, the event was curated by Pranay Manjari, co-founder of Safe Odisha For Her, and served as a platform to discuss the increasing threats faced by women and non-binary individuals in the state.

The session shed light on several disturbing cases, including the gang rape and blackmail of a college student in Cuttack on November 4, 2024, the gang rape and extortion of a minor girl in Bhubaneswar on October 31, 2024, and the public circulation of a video humiliating a woman who had reported mistreatment at a police station in September 2024. Survivors shared personal experiences of childhood abuse, harassment in educational institutions, digital violence, and public transportation abuse. One mother revealed that she had to relocate her daughter for safety, while another young woman recounted how she was filmed for two hours on a flight without any action taken against the perpetrator. Many participants also spoke about online abuse and image defamation.

The gathering underscored a shared frustration over the lack of systemic change despite numerous interventions by civil society organizations. However, the consensus remained clear: continuing to speak out and creating spaces for solidarity and healing are crucial steps in combating gender-based violence.

To build on this momentum, Speak Against Violence has committed to holding monthly in-person sessions on the last Saturday of each month from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM. These meetings will address different facets of gender-based violence through panel discussions, film screenings, dialogues, safe circles, music, art, policy analysis, and survivor storytelling.

Upcoming Sessions:

• April 26, 2025 – Analysis of the State Budget to Address and Prevent Gender-Based Violence
• May 31, 2025 – Human Trafficking, Migration, and State Intervention to Prevent Them

Residents of Bhubaneswar who wish to participate, contribute, or curate a session are encouraged to reach out via email at safeodishaforher@gmail.com.

With collective efforts, voices will continue to rise against violence, fostering a safer and more just society for all.