In Balasore, Odisha, a female B.Ed student at Fakir Mohan Autonomous College is in critical condition after attempting self-immolation, allegedly due to persistent harassment by the Head of the Integrated B.Ed. Department, Sameer Kumar Sahoo. The incident occurred on Saturday, July 12, 2025, in front of the college principal's office. The student sustained approximately 90% burn injuries and is currently receiving treatment at AIIMS Bhubaneswar. A fellow student who tried to rescue her suffered 70% burns and is also undergoing treatment at the same facility.

According to reports, the student had previously submitted formal complaints to the college principal and local police, but no substantial action was taken. Students stated that an internal committee was formed but made little progress. It is alleged that Sahoo repeatedly made inappropriate demands and threatened the student with academic consequences if she refused to comply. Prior to the self-immolation, the student, along with others, staged a protest on the college campus, demanding action against the teacher. The principal, Dilip Ghosh, stated that the student had lodged a complaint on June 30, and an internal complaint committee inquiry was in progress.

Following the incident, the Odisha Higher Education Department took immediate disciplinary action. Sameer Sahoo has been arrested, and Principal Dillip Kumar Ghosh has been suspended. Balasore Superintendent of Police, Raj Prasad, confirmed the arrest and stated that investigations are ongoing, and anyone found at fault will be held accountable. Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj visited AIIMS Bhubaneswar to inquire about the student's health condition and assured that strict action would be taken against those responsible.

Eyewitness accounts describe the horrifying scene as the woman set herself ablaze near the principal's office. A video shows her running through a corridor engulfed in flames, and a man attempting to help her also caught fire. People then rushed to extinguish the flames.

The incident has sparked intense protests and criticism, with opposition parties condemning the state government. The government has formed a 12-member team of doctors to care for the injured student.