Bhubaneswar, 15 July (H.S.): The mortal remains of 20-year-old Soumyashree, the Fakir Mohan Autonomous College student who succumbed to critical burn injuries following a self-immolation attempt, were consigned to flames on Tuesday in her native village of Palasia under Bhograi block in Balasore district.

Her final rites were performed amid emotionally charged scenes as family members, relatives, and villagers paid a tearful farewell to the young student whose tragic death has shaken the state.

Soumyashree had attempted self-immolation on the college campus on July 12, alleging sustained harassment and coercion by the Head of the Education Department, including demands for sexual favours. Despite reportedly lodging multiple complaints, she received no meaningful response from the college administration. In an act of desperate protest, she set herself ablaze near the Principal’s office.

She was initially rescued by fellow students and rushed to Balasore district hospital before being transferred to AIIMS Bhubaneswar in a critical condition with over 90% burn injuries. After battling for life for nearly 60 hours, she passed away late on Monday night.

As her body reached her village on Tuesday, Palasia was engulfed in sorrow. Grief-stricken locals recalled Soumyashree as a bright, hardworking, and courageous young woman. Heart-rending scenes unfolded during the cremation, with cries for justice echoing alongside the rituals.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda