Bhubaneswar: A 15-year-old girl from Odisha’s Puri district, who was allegedly set ablaze on July 19, succumbed to her injuries on Saturday at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi, according to PTI. The Class 10 student, who suffered 75% burn injuries, was initially treated at AIIMS Bhubaneswar before being airlifted to Delhi for advanced care.
The incident occurred in Bayabar village under Balanga police station limits, where the girl was reportedly kidnapped and set on fire on the Bhargavi riverbed. She managed to escape and sought refuge at a nearby house before being rushed to medical facilities. Despite undergoing multiple surgeries and skin grafting at AIIMS Delhi, her condition remained critical, and she passed away after a two-week battle.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, stating on X, “The state government ensured the best possible treatment, but we are devastated by this outcome. The investigation is ongoing, and the culprits will face stringent punishment.” The Odisha government had previously announced it would cover all medical expenses for her treatment.
The police investigation has taken a surprising turn, with Odisha Police claiming on Saturday that no other individuals were involved in the incident, contradicting earlier reports of three unidentified assailants. The girl’s mother had filed an FIR at Balanga police station, alleging that three bike-borne youths abducted her daughter, doused her with an inflammable substance, and set her on fire. However, police have detained and released eight individuals, including the girl’s relatives, without reaching a definitive conclusion. A senior police officer, “The investigation is in its final stages, with all legal aspects being meticulously examined to ensure a thorough and just outcome.”
The incident has sparked widespread outrage, particularly as it follows a recent case in Balasore where a 20-year-old college student died by self-immolation due to sexual harassment. The Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee president, Bhakta Charan Das, demanded the arrest of the alleged culprits within seven days, threatening protests if the police fail to act. Meanwhile, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) workers staged demonstrations at Balanga police station, demanding justice and criticizing the state’s law and order situation.