Odisha student dies after self-immolation over unaddressed sexual harassment allegations

A 20-year-old B.Ed. student from Fakir Mohan Autonomous College in Balasore, Odisha, tragically died on Monday night at AIIMS Bhubaneswar after attempting self-immolation on campus. The incident, which has sent shockwaves across the state, was reportedly triggered by prolonged sexual harassment she faced from her Head of Department and the lack of timely action from the college administration.

Also Read:Odisha student sets herself on fire after sexual harassment by college HOD, sparks statewide outrage

The student had suffered 90% burn injuries and was rushed to AIIMS Bhubaneswar on July 12 after being referred from Balasore District Headquarters Hospital. Despite receiving critical care, including mechanical ventilation and renal therapy, doctors confirmed her death at 11:46 PM on July 14.

The young woman allegedly endured repeated harassment from Sameer Kumar Sahoo, Head of the Integrated B.Ed. Department. Batchmates reported that he made coercive advances and threatened academic consequences when she resisted. Despite lodging complaints with both the college principal and local police, no firm action followed. Students noted that an internal inquiry committee was formed but proved ineffective.

On July 12, after a final meeting with the college principal, the student set herself on fire on campus. Her parents accused the principal and department head of ignoring her cries for help. Her father held the principal accountable for her distress, while her mother demanded the severest possible punishment for the accused.

Following her act of self-immolation, college principal Dillip Kumar Ghosh was arrested and sent to judicial custody for 14 days. The case has drawn widespread condemnation, with opposition parties accusing the state government of failing to protect women. Protests erupted in Bhubaneswar and Balasore demanding justice and systemic reform.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed sorrow over the incident and vowed harsh legal action against all responsible. He assured the family of full government support and a fair investigation.