Girl student battling for life at AIIMS after self-immolation bid in Balasore FM College ‘harassment’ case

A female student of Fakir Mohan Autonomous College in Balasore remains in critical condition at AIIMS Bhubaneswar after attempting self-immolation on Saturday, allegedly over prolonged mental harassment by a senior faculty member and inaction by the college administration.

The incident, which took place during a student protest outside the college yesterday, has triggered statewide outrage and swift government action.

According to hospital authorities, the student has sustained 90% burn injuries and is currently on ventilator support. A team of 12 specialist doctors is monitoring her condition at AIIMS Bhubaneswar.

Due to the severity of her injuries, doctors advised against airlifting her, although the Odisha government has assured full preparedness for emergency medical transfers if needed.

Allegations of Harassment and Institutional Apathy

On the day of the incident, a peaceful protest was being held by students at the college campus demanding justice and action. During the demonstration, the student reportedly distanced herself from the crowd, poured petrol, and set herself ablaze.

Several students rushed to rescue her, with a few sustaining burn injuries in the process.

Prior to the incident, the student had accused the Head of the Education Department, Sameer Ranjan Sahoo, of persistent mental harassment. She had also alleged that the college authorities failed to respond effectively to her complaints.

Although an internal committee was constituted, students have alleged that it lacked impartiality. The committee reportedly included only faculty members and no student representatives, raising concerns of bias and possible collusion.

Following the incident, she was initially taken to the Balasore District Headquarters Hospital for emergency care. Considering the severity of her condition, she was later shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar for advanced treatment.

Disciplinary and Legal Action Taken

The incident prompted an immediate response from the Odisha government. The Head of the Education Department, Sameer Ranjan Sahoo, was arrested by police after initial questioning, while the college principal, Dillip Ghosh, was suspended by the Higher Education Department. 

The Higher Education department also initiated an official inquiry headed by a senior-level woman officer and a principal from another college to ensure a neutral investigation.

A forensic investigation is underway, and multiple police teams have been assigned to examine various aspects of the case, including the role of other faculty members and the findings of the college’s internal committee.

Meanwhile, the Odisha government has committed to covering all treatment-related expenses for the victim, along with accommodation for her family members currently staying near AIIMS Bhubaneswar. The Higher Education Minister has coordinated with hospital authorities to ensure that the student receives the best possible care.