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

In a deeply disturbing incident that has sent shockwaves across Odisha, a B.Ed student of Fakir Mohan College in Balasore attempted suicide by setting herself ablaze inside the college campus. The act was reportedly in response to ongoing sexual harassment and intimidation by her department head, Samir Kumar Sahu, who allegedly coerced her for sexual favors and threatened to destroy her academic future if she refused.

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According to initial investigations, the student had formally lodged a complaint with the college administration on July 1, detailing the teacher’s inappropriate behavior. Despite the seriousness of the allegations, no action was taken for over a week, which reportedly left the student traumatized and helpless.

On the day of the incident, she allegedly poured a flammable substance over herself and lit a fire within the campus premises. Screaming in pain, she ran through the area until another student rushed to help douse the flames. Both the student and the rescuer suffered severe burns. While the second student sustained injuries while attempting to help, the victim is reported to have suffered 90% burn injuries and is currently in critical condition.

Following massive public outrage and media attention, police have arrested the accused HOD, and a full investigation is underway. The case has ignited calls for accountability from educational institutions and stricter enforcement of sexual harassment redressal mechanisms.