Tragic Death of College Student Sparks Outrage in Odisha
College Student's Death Raises Questions
On Tuesday, the body of a college student who allegedly set herself on fire following sexual harassment by a professor was cremated at a funeral site in her village in Balasore district, Odisha. In a shocking turn of events, the victim's father has claimed that his daughter was murdered rather than having taken her own life, as initially reported.
This incident unfolded in Balasore district on Tuesday. In his plea for justice, the grieving father urged the state government to treat the case as a homicide and to bring all responsible parties to justice. He stated in an interview, "Everyone conspired to force my daughter into this action. Is this not murder?" He further expressed his belief that it was a deliberate plot against her, noting that she was outspoken in college, which some individuals could not tolerate. He also raised serious concerns regarding her last visit to the college principal's office, suggesting that a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death is necessary.
Political Leaders Offer Support
On Wednesday, former Congress president Rahul Gandhi reached out to the father of the student who self-immolated in Balasore, assuring him of full support in his quest for justice. He shared on social media, "I spoke with the father of the brave daughter who lost her life in the fight for justice in Balasore, Odisha. I felt the pain, dreams, and struggles of his daughter in his voice. I assured him that the Congress party and I will stand by him every step of the way. What happened is not only inhumane and shameful but also a wound for society as a whole."
Gandhi emphasized the need to ensure that the victim's family receives complete justice. He had previously accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of being responsible for the girl's death, stating that Prime Minister Narendra Modi should not remain silent on this matter but should provide answers.
Details of the Incident
The college student reportedly set herself on fire on Saturday within the campus, suffering burns over 90% of her body. She succumbed to her injuries on Tuesday. Prior to this tragic event, she had filed a complaint against a teacher for sexual harassment.
Public Reaction
I spoke with the father of the brave daughter who lost her life in the fight for justice in Balasore. I felt the pain, dreams, and struggles of his daughter in his voice.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 16, 2025
I assured him that the Congress party and I will stand by him every step of the way. What happened is not only inhumane and shameful but also a wound for society as a whole. …