Incident Overview

In a tragic incident at Fakir Mohan College in Balasore, Odisha, a student set herself ablaze following alleged harassment by her head of department. The student, part of the integrated B.Ed program, suffered 95% burn injuries. A fellow student, attempting to save her, also sustained 70% burns. Both are currently receiving treatment at AIIMS Bhubaneswar.

Allegations and Initial Complaint

The student had previously filed a complaint on July 1 with the college’s internal complaints committee, accusing her head of department, Samir Kumar Sahu, of repeatedly asking for sexual favors and threatening her future if she did not comply. Despite assurances that action would be taken within seven days, no measures were implemented.

Protest and Self-Immolation

On the day of the incident, the student participated in a protest outside the college gates with other students. During the protest, she suddenly ran towards an area near the principal’s office, doused herself in petrol, and set herself on fire. A video captured her engulfed in flames as she ran through a college corridor while others attempted to extinguish the fire.

College Response and Investigation

College principal Dilip Ghosh confirmed that the student’s complaint had been registered and was under review by the internal committee. He stated that both the student and Sahu were informed about the consequences of false statements. Sahu denied the allegations during their meeting.

Ongoing Investigation and Detainment

Following the incident, protests intensified at the college. Samir Kumar Sahu has been detained as investigations continue into the allegations and circumstances leading to this tragic event.