Odisha Police Nears Conclusion in Shocking Case of 15-Year-Old Girl Set Ablaze

Investigation Update on the Disturbing Incident

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Police announced on Wednesday that their investigation into the horrific incident involving a 15-year-old girl, who was allegedly set on fire by three unidentified individuals, is nearing completion.

The tragic event occurred on the morning of July 19, near the banks of the Bhargavi River, close to the girl's home in the Balanga region of Puri district.

Puri Superintendent of Police, Pinak Mishra, addressed concerns regarding the delay in apprehending the suspects, stating, "The girl, who sustained severe burns covering 70% of her body, is currently receiving treatment at AIIMS-Delhi and is reported to be in stable condition. A Deputy Superintendent of Police and the officer-in-charge of the Balanga police station are in the national capital conducting a thorough investigation and interviewing relevant individuals to gather evidence."

He further added, "We have obtained significant leads in this case."

Mishra emphasized that the police are approaching the investigation with great sensitivity, prioritizing the victim's health, and noted, "Now is not the appropriate time to discuss the motives behind this crime."

Sources indicate that the police have recorded the victim's statement three times in the presence of a magistrate—once in AIIMS-Bhubaneswar and twice in Delhi.

Her testimony is deemed crucial, as the investigation has not confirmed the involvement of three unknown assailants, with only a silver finger ring recovered as evidence against the alleged attackers.

Previously, the police had relied on the account of Dukshishyam Senapati, a villager who extinguished the flames and rushed her to the hospital.

Senapati reported that the victim claimed she was abducted by three individuals while walking and subsequently set ablaze.

However, the police have yet to uncover any evidence linking three suspects to the incident, according to sources.