President Murmu Visits Burn Victim at AIIMS Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: President Droupadi Murmu on Monday visited the 20-year-old student from Fakir Mohan (FM) Autonomous College, Balasore, who is undergoing treatment at AIIMS Bhubaneswar following a self-immolation attempt allegedly triggered by harassment from a faculty member.

The visit came shortly after the President attended the convocation ceremony at AIIMS. She met the student in a special medical unit, enquired about her condition, and wished her a speedy recovery. The student had reportedly set herself on fire on July 12 outside the college principal’s chamber, accusing Samira Kumar Sahu, Head of the Education Department, of continuous mental harassment.

President Murmu also interacted with the team of doctors treating the victim and expressed deep concern over the trauma the student has endured. She later met with the student’s parents and family, assuring them of full medical support and care.

“President Murmu was briefed about the patient’s condition in detail. She met the family and assured that the best possible treatment is being provided using advanced medical technology,” said Dr. Ashutosh Biswas, Executive Director and CEO of AIIMS Bhubaneswar.

The President was accompanied by Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan during her hospital visit.

An official investigation is currently underway to verify the harassment allegations. The incident has sparked public concern and calls for accountability within academic institutions.