A female undergraduate student in Odisha's Balasore district attempted self-immolation after alleging sexual harassment by the Head of Department (HOD) at Fakir Mohan Autonomous College. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and political controversy, prompting the Odisha government to take swift action, including bearing the student's medical expenses and assuring strict action against those found responsible.
The student, enrolled in an integrated Bachelor of Education course, accused the HOD, Sameer Sahu, of mental harassment and demanding sexual favors. Reportedly, her complaints were ignored, leading her to set herself ablaze outside the college premises. She sustained critical burn injuries, with reports indicating over 90% burns. A fellow student who attempted to rescue her also suffered serious injuries. Both students are currently receiving medical treatment. The female student is in critical condition at AIIMS Bhubaneswar. Doctors have stated that her kidneys and lungs are also affected, and she is on critical care support.
Balasore Police have arrested the accused HOD, Sameer Sahu. He has been questioned and produced before the court. The college principal, Dilip Kumar Khosh, has been suspended for failing to perform his duties. The Odisha government has ordered a probe into the incident, with Higher Education Minister Suryavanshi Suraj assuring stringent action. A team has been formed to investigate the matter. The police are also investigating alleged financial coercion, the role of other faculty members, and a possible administrative cover-up.
The incident has triggered sharp political reactions, with opposition parties like Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Congress staging demonstrations, accusing the ruling BJP government of failing to ensure the safety of female students in educational institutions. Former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed shock and distress over the incident, stating that the student was denied justice at every level. He also mentioned that the student had previously attempted suicide. Balasore MP Pratap Chandra Sarangi stated that the student had complained to him a few days prior, and he had enquired with the principal, who assured him that the internal enquiry committee would resolve the issue within five days.
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo moto cognizance of the incident. The Odisha government has stated it will bear the entire medical expenses of the student and her injured friend. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi visited AIIMS Bhubaneswar to inquire about the student's health and meet her family members. He assured that strict action would be taken against all those found responsible. The Higher Education Department has suspended both the accused faculty member and the college principal.
This incident underscores the urgent need for systemic changes to ensure the safety and security of young women in educational institutions. It has also brought to light the importance of addressing harassment complaints promptly and effectively. The government has promised to review the entire process of handling such cases and strengthen internal complaint committees in all institutions.
