Minor girl student set on fire by miscreants in Odisha’s Puri, shifted to Bhubaneswar with severe burns

A 16-year-old girl was allegedly set on fire by three unidentified youths while she was on her way to a friend’s house on Saturday morning. The incident took place in the Bayabar area of Nimapada Tehsil in Puri district, where the 15-year-old girl, a Plus II student, sustained critical burn injuries on her hands, legs, and parts of her torso.

According to preliminary reports, the attack occurred around 8:30 am when the girl had stepped out to deliver books to a friend.

Three unidentified youths intercepted her near a desolate stretch along the Bhargavi River road. Eyewitnesses stated that the girl was lifted and set ablaze by the trio, who then fled the scene.

Locals rushed to the spot after spotting the flames and heard her screams. She was initially taken to Pipili CHC before being referred to Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar due to the severity of her injuries.

Victim Had No Known Disputes, Say Family

The family has ruled out personal enmity or a love-revenge case as possible causes. As of the last reports, the identities of the attackers are still unknown, and police have yet to make any arrests.

Shockingly, the incident happened just 1.5 km away from the Balanga police station. Police have not made any comments on this matter so far.

Deputy CM Weighs In

The incident prompted swift condemnation and action from Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida. Labelling the incident as deeply tragic, she announced strict punitive measures against those responsible and directed law enforcement to arrest the accused immediately.

She further assured that the state government will bear the full cost of the victim's treatment at AIIMS, where the victim will now be referred to. Parida is also expected to visit AIIMS personally to meet with the young girl and assess her condition.

"As soon as the matter came to light, OIC Balanga rushed to the spot and rescued the victim. She was shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar for treatment. An investigation is ongoing, and immediate action will be taken against the accused. We have found some physical evidence at the crime scene. Additional details will follow after a forensic investigation," said Puri SP Pinak Mishra.

FM College Girl Burn Case Still Haunts Odisha

This incident comes close on the heels of another tragic case in Balasore, where a girl student from Fakir Mohan College suffered over 90% burn injuries after allegedly setting herself ablaze in front of the college principal’s chamber on July 12.

The student was reportedly driven to the extreme step following prolonged harassment and died while undergoing treatment at AIIMS Bhubaneswar.