Why Did Odisha Student Attempt Self-Immolation? CM Mohan Majhi Visits AIIMS
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Synopsis
The shocking incident of a student's self-immolation attempt in Odisha raises grave concerns about harassment and negligence in educational institutions. With CM Mohan Majhi's visit to AIIMS, promises of stringent action emerge, yet questions about systemic failures linger. Will this tragedy lead to real change?
Key Takeaways
- Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi visited AIIMS to assess the student's condition.
- Student suffered severe burns due to self-immolation linked to harassment.
- Government promises strict action against those responsible.
- AIIMS Bhubaneswar is coordinating with AIIMS Delhi for advanced care.
- Public outcry demands accountability from educational institutions.
Bhubaneswar, July 13 (NationPress) Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi visited AIIMS Bhubaneswar on Sunday to evaluate the health of a female student from Fakir Mohan Autonomous College, Balasore, who is receiving treatment following her attempt at self-immolation due to alleged harassment and negligence from authorities.
The Chief Minister met with the medical professionals responsible for the care of the critically injured student and engaged with her family members.
Speaking to the media, he emphasized that strict action would follow against those responsible, based on the findings of the inquiry conducted by a high-level investigative team set up by the Higher Education Department.
“This incident is profoundly distressing. The young woman is in a precarious condition. A dedicated medical team is in place, providing every possible treatment to save her life,” CM Majhi noted after his visit.
He also revealed that AIIMS Bhubaneswar is collaborating with senior doctors from AIIMS Delhi through virtual consultations.
“I have directed the team to engage extensively with specialists from AIIMS, Delhi, via virtual means to explore advanced treatment alternatives. If necessary, she will be promptly transferred to AIIMS Delhi or another top-tier medical facility. The next 24 hours are vital,” the CM added.
CM Majhi reassured the victim's family that the state government stands firmly by them and confirmed the initiation of a comprehensive investigation into the incident at FM Autonomous College.
“We have launched an inquiry based on preliminary reports. Strict actions will be enforced against anyone found culpable. We aim to prevent such incidents from recurring—not just in this college but throughout Odisha,” he stated.
The Chief Minister also instructed the medical team to provide frequent health updates and assured that the government would cover all expenses for the girl's treatment.
“I have directed the team to handle this case with utmost seriousness. Every necessary resource will be utilized,” he affirmed.
He concluded his visit by praying for the girl's recovery.
“We appeal to Lord Jagannath for her healing and strength for the family. The government is committed to taking every step—both medical and legal—to ensure justice and care,” he expressed.
Meanwhile, the Biju Janata Dal staged a protest at CM Majhi’s official residence in Bhubaneswar on Sunday, demanding the resignation of the CM, Union Education Minister, and the Odisha Higher Education Minister.
It’s important to note that the second-year integrated BEd student set herself ablaze outside the college gate after pouring petrol on herself. She suffered severe burns and was initially taken to Balasore Medical College before being transferred to AIIMS, Bhubaneswar, for advanced care.
Prior to her self-immolation attempt, she had staged a sit-in protest near the college, demanding action against the accused Head of the BEd department, Samir Kumar Sahu, for alleged misconduct. She felt let down as no action had been taken against Sahu by the college authorities, despite her formal complaint.
Sahu was arrested by the Sahadevkhunta Police on Saturday after a case (229/2025) was registered under various sections of the Bharatiya Nayaya Sanhita, including 108 (abetment to suicide) and 75(1)(iii) (sexual harassment).
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the distressing incident involving a student's self-harm in Odisha as a call for urgent reform in educational governance. This tragedy reflects deeper issues of harassment and accountability within institutions. It is our responsibility to ensure that such incidents are not repeated, advocating for the safety and rights of students across the nation.
NationPress
13/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the student's self-immolation attempt?
The student attempted self-immolation due to alleged harassment and negligence from college authorities after her complaints were ignored.
What actions has the Odisha government taken?
The Chief Minister has assured that strict actions will be taken against the culprits following an inquiry.
What is the current condition of the student?
The student is in critical condition and receiving treatment at AIIMS Bhubaneswar.
What support is the government providing to the victim's family?
The government is covering all medical expenses and has reassured the family of their support.
What has been the public's reaction to this incident?
There has been significant outrage, leading to protests demanding accountability from educational authorities.
