**Tragic Death of Odisha Student After Alleged Sexual Harassment**
A 20-year-old college student in Odisha, who attempted self-immolation after reportedly facing prolonged sexual harassment, has died at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bhubaneswar. The student, enrolled in a B. Ed. program at Fakir Mohan Autonomous College in Balasore, set herself on fire on campus following her complaints about harassment by her Head of Department, which allegedly went unaddressed by college authorities.
The incident occurred on July 12, when the student was admitted to AIIMS with severe burns covering 90% of her body. Despite receiving intensive medical care, including mechanical ventilation and renal therapy, she succumbed to her injuries on July 14, with the hospital confirming her clinical death at 11:46 PM.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed his sorrow over the student’s death and promised strict action against those responsible. He stated, “I am deeply saddened to hear the news of the demise of the female student from FM Autonomous College. Despite the government’s fulfilment of all responsibilities and the tireless efforts of the expert medical team, the victim’s life could not be saved.” The Chief Minister assured the victim’s family of support and justice, emphasizing that all guilty parties would face the harshest penalties under the law.
Fellow students reported that the victim had been under significant mental distress due to ongoing harassment from Sameer Kumar Sahoo, the Head of the Integrated B. Ed. Department. Allegations included inappropriate demands and threats regarding her academic standing. Despite formal complaints to the college principal and local police, no effective action was taken, leading to frustration among students.
The student set herself ablaze shortly after a meeting with the college principal on Saturday. Her father has since blamed the principal for his daughter’s tragic situation, while her mother has called for capital punishment for the perpetrators. Following the incident, the principal, Dillip Kumar Ghosh, was arrested and placed in 14-day judicial custody.
The incident has sparked outrage, with opposition parties criticizing the ruling BJP for failing to ensure women’s safety in the state. Protests have erupted in Bhubaneswar and Balasore, highlighting the urgent need for action against sexual harassment in educational institutions.
**FAQ**
**What actions are being taken against the college authorities involved in the case?**
The Odisha Chief Minister has promised strict action against those responsible for the harassment and has instructed authorities to ensure that justice is served for the victim and her family.
