Bhubaneswar, 19 July (H.S.): A horrific incident of violence against a minor girl has shaken Odisha's Puri district, where a 16-year-old Plus II student was allegedly set on fire by three unidentified youths in the Bayabar area of Nimapada Tehsil on Saturday morning.
The attack took place around 8:30 AM while the girl was on her way to deliver books to a friend. The accused reportedly intercepted her on a secluded stretch near the Bhargavi River and, without provocation, set her ablaze before fleeing the scene.
Locals, alerted by the girl's screams, rushed to the spot and extinguished the flames. She sustained severe burns on her hands, legs, and torso and was initially rushed to the Pipili Community Health Centre (CHC). Given the seriousness of her injuries, she was later referred to Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar and subsequently shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar for advanced treatment.
The girl’s family has ruled out personal enmity or a relationship-related motive. Shockingly, the crime occurred just 1.5 kilometers from the Balanga police station, raising serious questions about law enforcement presence and response in the area. Police have yet to make any arrests, and the identities of the perpetrators remain unknown.
The incident has drawn widespread outrage and swift condemnation from Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, who termed the attack “deeply tragic.” She directed law enforcement agencies to act promptly and ensure that the culprits are apprehended without delay. Parida also announced that the state government will bear the full cost of the girl’s treatment at AIIMS Bhubaneswar and stated her intention to personally visit the victim.
Speaking to the media, Puri Superintendent of Police (SP) Pinak Mishra confirmed that law enforcement responded immediately after the incident was reported. “The Officer-in-Charge of Balanga Police Station rushed to the scene and facilitated the victim’s rescue. The girl has been shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar for further treatment. We have collected physical evidence from the spot, and a forensic investigation is underway,” he stated.
The investigation is ongoing, and police have assured strict action against those responsible. The brutal nature of the crime has sparked widespread concern across the state, with citizens demanding swift justice and stronger safety measures for women and girls.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda
