The principal of Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College in Balasore, Odisha, has been arrested following the self-immolation attempt of a 20-year-old female student who accused a faculty member of prolonged sexual harassment. The incident has sparked widespread outrage due to the college administration's alleged inaction regarding the student's complaints.

The student, enrolled in a B.Ed course, reportedly set herself on fire in front of the principal's office after a meeting with him. She had previously filed complaints against the Head of the Integrated B.Ed Department, Sameer Kumar Sahoo, alleging sexual harassment, mental harassment, misbehavior, and threats to manipulate her academic performance if she did not comply with his sexual demands. Despite submitting formal complaints to college authorities and local police, students claim no meaningful action was taken.

The student suffered critical burn injuries and was admitted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar, where she later died. Another student who attempted to save her was also seriously injured. The principal has been suspended for "failing to perform his duties in the capacity of principal". He has been arrested on charges of abetment to suicide. The accused assistant professor, Sameer Kumar Sahoo, was arrested earlier on charges of abetment of suicide, criminal intimidation, sexual harassment, stalking, and insulting the modesty of a woman.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed his condolences and assured the family that all those guilty would face the strictest punishment according to the law. He stated that the government stands firmly with the family and has issued instructions to the authorities to ensure justice. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also expressed condolences. The Odisha Higher Education Department has initiated a high-level inquiry into the matter, led by a director-level officer and a woman principal from another institution. The department has also suspended both the principal and the assistant professor following the incident.

The incident has led to protests, with Biju Janata Dal (BJD) workers staging demonstrations as the student's remains were taken for postmortem. The case highlights the serious issue of sexual harassment in educational institutions and the importance of addressing such complaints promptly and effectively.