Odisha self-immolation case: Crime branch says student’s complaint not validated by enquiry team

By | July 21, 2025
Students protesting in Odisha after self-immolation case

Balasore, Odisha – The death of a 20-year-old student has shocked Odisha. Her self-immolation protest and the events that led to it have ignited public anger and forced state authorities to act. The Odisha self-immolation case centers on a college student’s sexual harassment complaint, which a college inquiry panel dismissed shortly before her death.

The Complaint and the Tragedy

The young woman studied at the Government Autonomous College in Balasore. On July 12, she set herself on fire outside her home. Her family said she took this step after the college ignored her complaint against Head of Department Dr. Samira Kumar Sahoo.

Despite her serious allegations, the college’s Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) dismissed the case. She died on July 14 due to severe burn injuries. Her death sparked massive outrage, especially among students and women’s rights activists.

Crime Branch Findings

The Odisha Crime Branch took over the case soon after the incident. Vinaytosh Mishra, Additional Director General of Police, is leading the investigation. He confirmed that the ICC had not validated the student’s complaint.

According to Mishra, this rejection deeply impacted the student. Investigators have found key contradictions in witness statements. Some witnesses gave different accounts to the ICC, the police, and on social media.

The team is analyzing CCTV footage and digital evidence, including WhatsApp messages and emails. Forensic experts are reviewing the material to check if the ICC followed due process or showed bias.

Arrests and Legal Action

Police have arrested Dr. Samira Kumar Sahoo and former college principal Dillip Kumar Ghose. Authorities charged both with abetment of suicide and other criminal offences. The arrests followed strong protests and demands for justice.

Critics argue that the ICC failed to support the student. Activists believe the committee may have tried to protect the accused instead of helping the victim. Many have demanded legal action against the committee members.

Parallel Investigations

Several inquiry teams are now probing the matter. The University Grants Commission (UGC) has formed a four-member panel. Odisha’s Higher Education Department has also sent a team to inspect the college’s handling of the case.

A senior education official said the college did not offer enough support to the student. He added that the committee must explain why it rejected the complaint.

Public Outrage

Student groups and social organizations across Odisha have organized protests. On July 17, several towns observed a bandh to pressure the government for stronger action.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced ₹20 lakh as interim compensation for the victim’s family. He promised a fair investigation and justice for the deceased. “We will not tolerate negligence in such serious matters,” he said.

Opposition leaders called the tragedy a system failure. Congress spokesperson Debasish Patnaik accused the government of ignoring student safety. Many believe the case highlights deep flaws in how colleges handle complaints of harassment.

ICC Under Scrutiny

Colleges and universities must form Internal Complaints Committees under Indian law. These committees must include trained members and follow clear rules while investigating complaints.

However, experts say many ICCs lack proper training. Some even operate under pressure from senior faculty or administration. In this case, critics believe the committee acted unfairly.

Women’s rights activist Kavita Krishnan said, “This case is not just about one victim. It shows how institutions often silence survivors instead of helping them.”

A Call for Reform

The Odisha self-immolation case has become a national concern. It has forced educators, policymakers, and law enforcement to reflect on institutional failure.

Activists want the government to audit all ICCs in colleges and universities. They are also asking for external oversight of harassment complaints. Many believe institutions must offer safer environments for students, especially women.

The Crime Branch continues its investigation. Authorities say they will submit a full report once forensic and digital findings are complete. Until then, the public waits for answers—and justice.