Bhubaneswar, 13 July (H.S.): Leader of Opposition and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has expressed deep anguish over the tragic self-immolation attempt by a student of Fakir Mohan University in Balasore, terming the incident both “shocking and deeply distressing.” In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Patnaik prayed for the student’s swift recovery and called for urgent intervention by the Governor of Odisha to ensure justice is delivered.

According to Patnaik, the student had been subjected to repeated sexual harassment by a faculty member who allegedly demanded sexual favours. In a letter addressed to the principal, the victim had earlier disclosed a prior suicide attempt and had described living in a state of fear and mental agony for several months.

On July 1, in a desperate bid for help, the student reportedly shared her ordeal on social media, tagging several senior state officials. However, with no concrete action taken, she resorted to setting herself ablaze outside the principal’s chamber on campus.

“This tragic incident lays bare the stark reality of how she was denied justice, despite raising her voice repeatedly — from the College Principal to the Higher Education Minister, and even to the Union Minister and the Chief Minister,” Patnaik said in his statement.

Highlighting that the Governor of Odisha serves as the Chancellor of key state-run universities including Fakir Mohan University, Patnaik urged Hon’ble Governor Raghubar Das to intervene and ensure the student’s grievances are addressed with the seriousness they deserve.

Patnaik concluded by once again praying to Lord Jagannatha for the girl’s speedy recovery from the grievous burn injuries and reaffirmed his commitment to upholding students’ rights and dignity within the higher education system.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda