Why Did a Girl Student Attempt Self-Immolation Over Harassment?
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Synopsis
In a heartbreaking turn of events, a student from Fakir Mohan Autonomous College in Odisha attempted self-immolation due to ongoing harassment. This shocking incident has led to the suspension of key college figures and has ignited widespread outrage among students and locals alike. What actions will be taken to ensure justice?
Key Takeaways
- Harassment in educational institutions must be taken seriously.
- Immediate action is required to protect students.
- The role of Internal Complaints Committees is crucial in addressing grievances.
- Community pressure can lead to swift administrative responses.
- Victims should never feel alone in seeking justice.
Bhubaneswar, July 13 (NationPress) In a disturbing incident, a young female student from Fakir Mohan Autonomous College, located in the Balasore district of Odisha, attempted self-immolation on Saturday, citing harassment by her Head of Department (HoD).
A second-year integrated BEd student ignited herself after dousing her body with petrol right in front of the college's entrance. The student suffered serious burn injuries and was initially admitted to Balasore Medical College before being transferred to AIIMS, Bhubaneswar for specialized care.
In response to the incident, the Odisha Higher Education Department has suspended both the college's principal, Dillip Kumar Ghosh, and the alleged harasser, HoD Samir Kumar Sahu.
Additionally, the Sahadevkhunta Police acted swiftly, apprehending HoD Sahu based on preliminary evidence related to the case.
The suspension order mandates that Ghosh must remain at the office of the Collector and District Magistrate in Balasore and is prohibited from leaving the area without prior authorization from district officials.
Prior to this tragic event, the student had organized a sit-in protest at the college, demanding accountability from the administration regarding her complaints against the HoD for alleged inappropriate conduct.
She expressed deep frustration over the lack of action taken against HoD Sahu despite her formal grievance.
This incident has sparked significant outrage among students and local community members, who are now calling for a thorough investigation and accountability for HoD Sahu.
“This incident was not sudden. The girl had endured harassment for six months. Numerous complaints against this professor have surfaced over the last two years. Yet, the college leadership failed to act,” stated Subhra Sambit Nayak, ABVP state joint secretary.
Balasore Superintendent of Police Raj Prasad confirmed that Sameer Sahu has been taken into custody and is being presented in court.
“We have corroborated key evidence and are evaluating the role of the college's Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), which received a formal complaint from the victim and other students on June 30. We are scrutinizing whether the ICC adhered to proper procedures and how the college administration responded to the complaint,” mentioned Balasore SP.
Balasore MP Pratap Chandra Sarangi expressed his dismay regarding the administration's negligence in handling the student's harassment complaint and urged for stringent action against those responsible.
“I have spoken with the police, and they have confirmed the establishment of a complaint committee to investigate the situation. This committee is expected to report its findings within five working days,” Sarangi stated.
He revealed that the victim had approached him five days prior to the incident, sharing her distressing experience.
“She and a friend visited me. I immediately contacted the college principal and relevant authorities, who assured me that the internal committee was addressing the issue. However, no tangible actions were taken,” Sarangi added.
He further noted that the student had expressed thoughts of suicide during their conversation.
“I strongly advised her against such drastic measures, assuring her that justice would prevail and that the guilty would face consequences. I encouraged her to remain hopeful,” concluded Sarangi.
Point of View
I firmly believe that incidents of harassment in educational institutions must be addressed with utmost seriousness. The safety and well-being of students should always be a top priority. This tragic event highlights systemic failures that need urgent attention. We stand in solidarity with the victim and advocate for a thorough investigation and accountability for all involved.
NationPress
13/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the student's extreme action?
The student alleged that she faced harassment from her Head of Department for an extended period, leading her to take drastic measures when no action was taken by the college authorities.
What actions have been taken against the accused?
Both the principal of the college and the accused HoD have been suspended, and the police have arrested the HoD based on preliminary evidence.
What is the response from local authorities?
Local authorities, including Balasore MP Pratap Chandra Sarangi, have expressed concern and demanded a thorough investigation into the incident.
How have students reacted to this incident?
The incident has sparked outrage among students, leading to demands for accountability and thorough investigations into the allegations of harassment.
What support is being offered to the victim?
The victim is receiving medical treatment at AIIMS, Bhubaneswar, and local authorities have initiated investigations to ensure justice.
