16-Year-Old Burn Victim from Puri Dies After Fortnight-Long Battle at AIIMS Delhi

Bhubaneswar: A 16-year-old girl from Balanga in Odisha’s Puri district, who was set ablaze in a brutal attack, has succumbed to her injuries after fighting for life for over two weeks. She passed away during treatment at AIIMS, New Delhi, where she had been airlifted on July 19 with 75% burn injuries.

The shocking incident occurred on the same day near Balanga, about 5 to 7 kilometres from the local police station. According to reports, three unidentified youths on a motorcycle intercepted the girl, tied a handkerchief around her face, poured an inflammable liquid on her, and set her on fire before fleeing the scene.

Her condition had initially been managed at AIIMS Bhubaneswar, but due to the severity of her injuries, she was later shifted to Delhi for advanced treatment. Despite efforts by a team of specialist doctors, she could not be saved.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, in a post on X, expressed deep grief over the incident, stating, “Despite the best efforts of the State Government and doctors at AIIMS Delhi, we could not save her life.” He offered condolences and prayed for strength for the grieving family.

Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, who also represents the Nimpara constituency, shared her condolences in a message on X, mourning the tragic loss of the minor girl.

In an earlier update, Puri SP Pinak Mishra confirmed that the victim’s statement had been recorded at AIIMS Delhi. The Inspector-in-Charge of Balanga Police Station, accompanied by a woman Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), had taken the statement during her treatment.

The investigation into the assault is ongoing, as authorities continue efforts to identify and apprehend the culprits behind the heinous crime.