Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Demands Justice for Balasore Student's Tragic Incident

Minister's Visit to Victim's Family

Bhubaneswar: On Sunday, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan visited the Burn Centre at AIIMS Bhubaneswar to meet the family of Soumyashree Bisi, a B.Ed student from FM Autonomous College in Balasore. She attempted self-immolation on Saturday due to alleged harassment from her Head of Department, Samir Kumar Sahu.

During his visit, Pradhan also spoke with the medical team caring for the critically injured student.

After the visit, he addressed the media, emphasizing that justice will prevail and that those responsible will face consequences. He described the incident as 'deeply unfortunate and highly disturbing,' highlighting a significant failure within the academic environment.

Pradhan noted that the Odisha government has already begun disciplinary and legal actions, with more stringent measures to follow. He assured that the police are actively investigating the case and that anyone accountable, regardless of their position, will not escape repercussions.

"With over 800 colleges in Odisha, this incident has revealed serious flaws in campus safety and student support systems. Immediate reforms and strict adherence to guidelines are essential across all institutions," Pradhan stated. He urged those in leadership roles to reflect on their responsibilities, asserting that anyone found negligent should consider resigning as a moral obligation.

As a Member of Parliament from Odisha, Pradhan expressed his visit to the victim's family as both a ministerial duty and a personal concern. "This is not merely an institutional failure; it represents a humanitarian crisis. I stand with the family and promise full support from both the Centre and the State," he affirmed. He concluded by calling the incident a 'wake-up call' for the education system, stressing the need to protect the girl's life and dignity.

In the meantime, Soumyashree's brother has called for justice, accusing the college administration of negligence in safeguarding his sister. "The college's response was utterly irresponsible. My sister suffered mentally due to their treatment. We believe the authorities, including the Principal, should be held accountable," he claimed. He also requested the intervention of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to ensure strict punishment for those responsible.

Regarding communication with higher authorities, he stated, "We seek justice. The Chief Minister must intervene. A thorough and fair investigation is necessary, and anyone found guilty must be punished, regardless of their seniority."