BJD Leaders Face FIR Over University Clash

The Odisha Assembly was disrupted by protests following the registration of an FIR against BJD MLA Byomakesh Ray and two other party leaders in connection with violent clashes during a torch rally against the renaming of Ravenshaw University. The FIR, lodged by research student Shyama Sundar Sahoo, accuses the leaders of using threats and violence against students. In response, Ray claimed that his participation in the peaceful rally was mischaracterized and politically motivated, while the BJD condemned the FIR as unjust and an attempt to tarnish their reputation. The rally, organized to voice concerns over the proposed name change, witnessed significant participation from alumni and students. Tensions have escalated on campus, prompting calls for calm and an investigation into the incident. The situation highlights the intersection of politics and educational governance in Odisha as authorities work to restore order.