Bhubaneswar, 3 August (H.S.): In a deeply distressing development, the 16-year-old minor girl from Balanga in Odisha’s Puri district, who had sustained severe burn injuries after allegedly being set on fire, has succumbed to her injuries while undergoing treatment at AIIMS Delhi. She was declared dead on Saturday evening after battling for her life for nearly two weeks.
The teenager, who had suffered more than 75% burn injuries, was initially admitted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar before being airlifted to the national capital on July 20 for advanced medical care. Despite undergoing multiple surgeries and receiving intensive treatment, her condition remained critical throughout her hospitalization.
The incident occurred on July 19 near Bayabar village in Balanga, where the girl was allegedly attacked in broad daylight by unidentified assailants who reportedly poured a flammable substance on her and set her ablaze. The case triggered widespread outrage and concern, with civil society and political leaders demanding justice and accountability.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed his profound grief through a statement on X saying, “I am deeply shocked to hear the news of the death of the girl victim in the Balanga incident. Despite all the efforts of the government and the round-the-clock endeavors of the specialist medical team at AIIMS Delhi, her life could not be saved. I pray for the eternal peace of the girl's soul and beseech God to grant strength to her family to bear this irreparable loss.”
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida also condoled the tragic death. “Following an unexpected and unfortunate incident, the victim from Balanga, who was under treatment at Delhi AIIMS, has passed away. While praying for the eternal peace of the departed soul, I express my condolences to her family in this sorrowful situation. Despite all efforts by the medical team and the government, we are deeply saddened that she could not be saved,” she posted on social media.
---------------
Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda
