Pall of gloom descends Odisha as FM College student dies after self-immolation

A pall of gloom has descended Balasore district following the death of a student of Fakir Mohan Autonomous College, who succumbed to severe burn injuries on July 14. She had attempted self-immolation inside the college campus, alleging prolonged harassment by a senior faculty member.

As the news of her death spread, grief and outrage swept through her native village. Shocked villagers and relatives expressed deep sorrow and anger, blaming college authorities and the administration for failing to protect the young student.

Locals recalled her as a bright and determined girl, now lost to a system that failed her. Demands for justice and stringent punishment for the accused have grown louder, as her tragic end continues to stir emotions across the state.

“She was mentally very strong and very studious. But sadly we lost her. She was my student. Despite her repeated complaints, no actions were taken. The government should come up with something that the college campus will be safe for the students,” said a teacher of her.

Expressing grief over her untimely demise, her grandfather said, “The government is responsible for her death. She informed the matter to Higher Education Minister, Chief Minister, MP, local MLA and police, but no action was taken.”

“Why no public representative took action despite her complaints. The incident will force the girl students to think twice who are pursing higher studies dreaming for a bright future,” a relative of the deceased student said.

What had happened?

A student of Fakir Mohan College, Balasore, had accused her Head of Department of repeated harassment. Despite filing complaints with the college authorities and internal committee, no action was reportedly taken. In a desperate act of protest, she attempted self-immolation outside the principal’s office on July 12. She sustained over 90% burn injuries and was shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar in critical condition. After battling for her life, she succumbed to her injuries on July 14, sparking statewide outrage and demands for justice.