BJD Slams Odisha Govt Over Student’s Self-Immolation Attempt

Bhubaneswar: The Opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Saturday launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led Odisha Government, alleging a complete breakdown of the law and order machinery following a shocking self-immolation attempt by a college student in Balasore.

The incident, involving Soumyashree, an Integrated B.Ed. student at Fakir Mohan Autonomous College, has triggered political outrage and public concern. The student allegedly attempted to set herself on fire in front of the college principal’s office, citing prolonged harassment by Head of Department (HOD) Samira Kumar Sahu and administrative apathy despite repeated complaints.

Addressing the media, senior BJD leader Snehangini Chhuria condemned the incident as “deeply unfortunate” and indicative of systemic administrative failure. She demanded immediate intervention from Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and questioned the BJP Government’s commitment to ensuring student safety.

Chhuria further held Balasore MP Pratap Sarangi accountable, revealing that the student had earlier reached out to him about the harassment but received no substantial support. “What action did the MP take after being informed of her mental distress?” she asked. Sarangi, meanwhile, confirmed to reporters that he had been approached by the victim.

Classmates of the victim alleged that HOD Samira Kumar Sahu made inappropriate demands, issued threats, and warned of academic consequences if Soumyashree failed to comply. Despite written complaints submitted to both the college principal and local police, no action was taken, escalating the student’s frustration.

Following the incident, Soumyashree sustained 90% burn injuries and was initially treated at the Balasore District Headquarters Hospital before being shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar. Her condition remains critical.

Reacting to the incident, the Higher Education Department suspended College Principal Dilip Ghose and HOD Sahu. The latter has since been arrested by Sahadevkhunta Police.

Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj visited AIIMS Bhubaneswar to assess the student’s condition and announced the formation of a high-level inquiry committee. “Appropriate action will be taken based on the committee’s findings,” he assured.

The tragic case has sparked statewide outrage, with demands intensifying for strict accountability and reforms in campus grievance redressal mechanisms.