Balasore, Jul 13: A tragic incident at Fakir Mohan Autonomous College in Balasore, Odisha, has sent shockwaves across the state. A second-year B.Ed student attempted self-immolation on campus after her repeated complaints of sexual harassment against a senior faculty member were allegedly ignored.

She sustained over 90% burn injuries and is currently battling for life at AIIMS Bhubaneswar under ventilator support.

The student had lodged a formal complaint on July 1 against Samir Kumar Sahoo, Head of the Education Department, accusing him of persistent harassment and threats to ruin her academic career.

Despite assurances of action within seven days, no steps were taken, prompting her to stage a protest with classmates. During the demonstration, she poured petrol on herself near the principal’s office and set herself ablaze.

In a heroic attempt to save her, first-year student Jyoti Prakash Biswal also suffered severe burns and was transferred to Cuttack for treatment. The incident has triggered widespread protests and demands for accountability.

The Odisha government responded swiftly by suspending Principal Dillip Kumar Ghosh and arresting the accused professor. A high-level committee has been formed to investigate the incident. The internal complaints committee of the college is under scrutiny for its alleged bias and failure to act.

Medical experts report that the victim’s condition remains critical, with damage to her lungs, kidneys, and respiratory tract. Due to the high risk of infection, family visits have been restricted. A team of 12 senior doctors from various departments, including burns, pulmonology, nephrology, and cardiology, is overseeing her treatment.

Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj has assured that the government will bear all medical expenses and ensure justice.

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