Shocking Arrest in Odisha: College Principal Detained After Student's Self-Immolation Attempt

Principal Arrested Following Disturbing Incident

Bhubaneswar: In a significant turn of events concerning the self-immolation attempt by a B.Ed student from Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College in Balasore, authorities have taken the step of arresting the Principal, Dillip Kumar Ghose.

This action follows his suspension by the state's Higher Education Department on Saturday, prompted by his inadequate response to the incident involving the student.

The case has sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice, highlighting serious issues within Odisha's educational framework.

The student attempted to set herself on fire in front of the principal's office after alleging sexual harassment by the Head of Department (HoD), Samir Kumar Sahu.

Suffering from severe burn injuries, with over 90% of her body affected, she was initially taken to Balasore Medical College before being transferred to AIIMS in Bhubaneswar for specialized care.

Before her tragic act, the student had organized a sit-in protest on campus, demanding action against HoD Sahu for his alleged misconduct.

Despite filing a formal complaint, she felt that the college administration failed to take appropriate measures against Sahu.

In response to the allegations, Sahu was promptly arrested by the Sahadevkhunta Police, facing charges under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including 108 (abetment to suicide) and 75(1)(iii) (sexual harassment).

Principal Dillip Kumar Ghose has been suspended due to his failure to address the situation adequately.

As for the victim, officials at AIIMS-Bhubaneswar reported that she remains in critical condition, reliant on life support and a mechanical ventilator, with the first 72 hours deemed crucial for her recovery.