Odisha Self-Immolation Case: Student Warned College Authorities Of Suicide In Complaint 11 Days Earlier, Says Report
Balasore: A 22-year-old BEd student from Odisha’s Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College tragically died after setting herself on fire on campus, following alleged inaction on a sexual harassment complaint she had filed against a senior faculty member.
According to a report by NDTV, the student had submitted a written letter to the college’s Internal Complaints Committee, stating that she was emotionally distressed and would be compelled to take her own life if the institution failed to act.
Despite the clear and urgent warning, no disciplinary action was taken against the accused faculty member in the eleven days leading up to the student’s death, as per the report.
Self-immolation on Campus
On the day of the incident, the young woman poured petrol over herself and lit a fire outside the Principal’s office. She was rushed to a local hospital before being shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar. Despite medical intervention, she died from severe burns covering 95 per cent of her body.
The student’s letter, written in desperation, has raised serious questions about the college administration’s response and whether timely intervention could have saved her life.
Odisha CM Orders Probe, Announces Ex-Gratia
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 20 lakh for the student’s family. In a statement issued by the Chief Minister’s Office, Majhi directed officials to carry out a full investigation and ensure that all those responsible are brought to justice.
Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati expressed his sorrow on social media, writing, “Her passing is not just a tragedy, it is a stark reminder of the urgent need to safeguard our campuses.” He added, “The law will take its toughest course. Those responsible will face uncompromising punishment.”
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