What Happened to the Minor Girl Set Ablaze in Odisha?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Young girl critically injured in a brutal attack.
- Immediate medical transfer to AIIMS Delhi planned.
- Public outrage calls for justice and reform.
- Police form a Special Investigation Team to address the case.
- Recent events highlight a growing concern for women's safety.
Bhubaneswar, July 20 (NationPress) A young girl from Odisha's Puri district has suffered 70 percent burn injuries after being ignited by three unknown assailants. She is currently being airlifted to AIIMS Delhi for advanced medical care.
Officials reported on Sunday that her condition, while still critical, has improved sufficiently for the transfer.
Dr. Asutosh Biswas, Executive Director of AIIMS Bhubaneswar, stated, "The girl's health is now stable enough for transfer. A special flight has been arranged, and AIIMS Delhi has been notified."
The distressing incident took place on July 19 in Balanga, Puri.
The family disclosed that the girl was attacked near a river embankment, where the assailants allegedly doused her in petrol and kerosene before igniting her.
Fortunately, she managed to escape to a nearby home, where villagers quickly transported her to the Pipili Community Health Centre.
Due to the severity of her injuries, she was subsequently referred to AIIMS Bhubaneswar.
This gruesome act has prompted immediate police action. A Special Investigation Team (SIT), led by Balanga IIC Shri Dibya Ranjan Panda, has been established.
The team has been instructed to expedite the investigation and identify the perpetrators. Forensic units, including K9 teams, have thoroughly searched the crime scene, while senior police officials are closely supervising the investigation.
A case has been registered under Malanga PS Case No. 162/2025, invoking sections 127(2), 109, 123, and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
The Odisha Police have pledged strict measures and promised justice for the survivor.
The incident has ignited public outrage, resulting in calls for immediate reforms in women's safety and rapid justice for the offenders.
This event follows closely after a tragic incident where a 20-year-old college student succumbed to her injuries after self-immolating due to perceived inaction on her sexual harassment complaint against her college's Head of Department.
The second-year Integrated B.Ed student from Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College in Balasore suffered 95 percent burns after setting herself on fire. She passed away on July 14 at AIIMS Bhubaneswar, which has led to widespread outrage and condemnation across the state.