Odisha Student's Tragic Protest Highlights Sexual Harassment Issues

A tragic incident in Odisha has drawn attention to serious issues of sexual harassment within educational institutions. An undergraduate student set herself on fire during a protest after her complaints against an assistant professor went unaddressed. With severe injuries, she is now in critical condition. The incident has led to the arrest of the accused professor and sparked political outrage, highlighting systemic failures in addressing such serious allegations. As investigations unfold, the case raises critical questions about the safety and support for students in academic environments.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 13, 2025, 20:21 IST

Incident Overview

In a heartbreaking incident in Balasore district, Odisha, an undergraduate student set herself ablaze during a protest on Saturday. This drastic action followed her allegations of sexual harassment against an assistant professor, which she claimed were ignored, according to reports.

The student suffered severe injuries, with 90% of her body burned, and is currently in critical condition at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Bhubaneswar.

In response to the incident, the state government has acknowledged the situation.

Arrest and Institutional Response

The accused, Assistant Professor Samir Kumar Sahu, who leads the education department at Fakir Mohan Autonomous College, has been arrested and is now in judicial custody. Additionally, the college principal, Dilip Ghosh, has been suspended due to alleged negligence.

The student had previously lodged a formal complaint with the college's Internal Complaints Committee, which reportedly failed to take any action. Furthermore, her police complaint filed on July 1 also went unaddressed.

College officials later claimed that the committee submitted a report on July 9 but did not provide any recommendations regarding the harassment allegations.

Details of the Allegations

The student accused the faculty member of demanding inappropriate favors and threatening her academic future if she did not comply. A classmate revealed that she was also being prevented from attending classes.

Investigation and Government Response

Balasore Superintendent of Police Raj Prasad announced the formation of a special team to investigate the case. He explained that the student had initially approached the Internal Complaints Committee on June 30 before going to the police.

Prasad stated, 'We followed up with the committee, which indicated they would provide a report within five days.' However, when this did not occur, further inquiries were made, and they are currently reviewing the committee's proceedings.

Odisha's Higher Education Minister, Suryabanshi Suraj, mentioned that a high-level inquiry committee has been established due to the sensitive nature of the case, with further actions pending based on its findings.

Political Reactions

The incident has ignited a political controversy in Odisha, with former Chief Minister and Biju Janata Dal leader Naveen Patnaik criticizing the administration for its inaction.

In a social media statement, Patnaik noted that the student had previously attempted suicide and had sought help multiple times without success. He emphasized the failure of the system to provide justice despite her repeated appeals to various officials.

Additionally, a group of Congress leaders visited the student's family, accusing the state government of neglecting her complaints.