Odisha CM Announces ₹20 Lakh Ex-Gratia for Family of Balasore Student Who Died After Self-Immolation Attempt

Bhubaneswar : Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday announced an ex-gratia of ₹20 lakh for the family of a 20-year-old student of Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College in Balasore, who died from severe burn injuries late Monday night at AIIMS Bhubaneswar.

The student had reportedly attempted self-immolation on July 12 on the college campus, accusing the Head of the Education Department, Samir Kumar Sahu, of sexually harassing her. She allegedly poured petrol on herself and set herself on fire outside the principal’s chamber. She was first taken to Balasore Medical College but was later shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar due to the critical nature of her injuries.

Expressing deep sorrow over the incident, CM Majhi took to social media platform X and said he was heartbroken by the student’s tragic death. He offered his prayers for the departed soul and conveyed his condolences to the grieving family.

The Chief Minister has directed a thorough investigation into the incident and stressed that strict legal action must be taken against anyone found guilty.

In the wake of the incident, Sahadevkhunta Police arrested Samir Kumar Sahu under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including Section 108 (abetment of suicide) and Section 75(1)(iii) (sexual harassment).

Additionally, Dilip Ghosh, the college principal who had previously been suspended, was arrested on Monday for his alleged role in the case.

The incident has sparked outrage across the state, with growing demands for justice and institutional reforms to ensure student safety on campuses.