TV
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi on Monday reacted sharply to the mention of the word “suicide” during a grievance hearing in the state capital of Bhubaneswar. He urged citizens to exercise patience and trust in due process rather than take extreme steps.
According to sources, the exchange took place when an elderly applicant, while narrating his problem, hinted at ending his life. CM Majhi immediately stopped him, telling him not to utter the word at all.
“Please don’t even say it. If your complaint is genuine, justice will definitely be delivered. That is why I am here in person to listen,” the Chief Minister said.
Reminding the man that his presence at the grievance cell was itself proof of the government’s intent to resolve issues, the CM continued to condemn the man for uttering the word. He further advised everyone present that all grievances brought to him would be addressed.
The CM’s stern appeal came against a grim backdrop as Odisha has, in recent months, witnessed a disturbing rise in self-immolation attempts, with the most recent being as fresh as this morning.
State Haunted by Recent Tragedies
The most recent case emerged from Bargarh district, where a 13–14-year-old girl, a Class 8 student, succumbed to burn injuries in Burla hospital on Monday. Reports stated that she had been visiting her maternal uncle in Phiringimal village under Gaisilat police limits when, according to local accounts, she allegedly set herself ablaze in a football field.
Villagers found her unconscious, with burn injuries. A petrol bottle and a matchbox were recovered from the spot. Locals allege the ambulance took more than 45 minutes to arrive, forcing them to give first aid and call repeatedly for help.
She was first rushed to a nearby hospital and later shifted to Burla as her condition deteriorated. Despite the efforts of doctors, she died during treatment.
Government Vows Action, Appeals for Restraint
Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan called the incident ‘deeply unfortunate’ and emphasised that suicide is never a solution. “The Chief Minister’s doors are open to everyone,” he said, urging people to seek help rather than resort to fatal measures.
“The government is treating the Bargarh case with the utmost seriousness and will take strict action against any offender found guilty. All police officers in the state have been advised to register complaints promptly and will face action if they fail to do so,” he added.
