Tragic Death of Student Sparks Controversy at Bhubaneswar College: What Happened?

Bhubaneswar College Faces Backlash After Student's Death

Bhubaneswar: The Internal Complaint Committee (ICC) at Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College has recommended the removal of Samira Kumar Sahoo, who has been accused of sexually harassing Soumyashree Bisi, a student who tragically took her own life. The ICC's coordinator, Jayshree Mishra, stated that the recommendation was based on Sahoo's 'strict approach' rather than any allegations of sexual misconduct.

Earlier, the father of the deceased student blamed the ICC for his daughter's death, claiming they produced a biased report that contributed to her decision to self-immolate on July 12.

Soumyashree, a 20-year-old second-year Integrated BEd student, suffered severe burns and passed away at AIIMS Bhubaneswar late Monday night.

On July 1, she filed a complaint against Sahoo, alleging he had requested inappropriate favors and subjected her to mental harassment for rejecting his advances.

Mishra explained that while the ICC's report suggested Sahoo's removal due to negative feedback from students about his strictness, they could not substantiate claims of sexual harassment against him.

Despite the ICC's findings, no action was taken against Sahoo, which may have exacerbated the complainant's distress, according to Mishra.

The committee also advised Sahoo to adjust his teaching style to better meet student needs.

ICC member Minati Sethi mentioned that discussions with approximately 60 students revealed that many found Sahoo excessively strict, with some recounting instances where he punished students for minor infractions.

Soumyashree was reportedly barred from taking a semester exam on June 30, which deeply affected her, leading her to file harassment complaints the following day.

During the investigation, while most female students denied experiencing harassment, the complainant alleged that Sahoo had made an inappropriate request in passing, which the ICC could not verify.

Mishra expressed deep sorrow over the student's death, emphasizing her value to the college.

The ICC was established on July 1, with their investigation commencing on July 3 and concluding with a report submitted to Principal Dillip Ghose on July 9.

Following Soumyashree's tragic act, the state government suspended Sahoo and he was arrested on the same day. The Principal was also suspended and arrested on charges related to abetment of suicide and sexual harassment.

Balasore MP Pratap Sarangi criticized the ICC report, alleging it portrayed Sahoo in a favorable light.