Odisha CM announces Rs 20 lakh ex gratia for kin of Balasore college student
Balasore, Odisha — A heartbreaking case from Balasore has shocked Odisha. A 20-year-old college student died after allegedly facing sexual harassment and being ignored by her institution. The incident led to massive public outrage and swift action from the state government.
What Happened?
The victim, a second-year B.Ed student at Fakir Mohan Autonomous College, set herself on fire on July 12. She had accused a professor and the Head of Department of harassment. Reports say she tried to file a complaint but received no serious response from college authorities.
She sustained 95% burns and was taken to AIIMS Bhubaneswar. Doctors tried to save her, but she died on July 14.
Her family says she often spoke about the trauma she faced. “She said no one cared, and the college made her feel guilty,” a close relative said.
CM’s Response
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed sorrow over the student’s death. He announced ₹20 lakh in financial aid for her family. The money will come from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.
“This is not just a case of harassment. It is a failure of the entire system,” the CM said. “We will ensure strict action against those responsible.”
He also promised a review of how Odisha colleges handle student complaints. “We must improve our grievance redressal systems,” he added.
Arrests and Investigation
Police arrested the professor and the HoD named in the student’s note. The state formed a special investigation team to look into the case. Authorities said the inquiry would be fair and quick.
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has also taken up the case. Chairperson Rekha Sharma said the commission would send a team to Balasore. “This is a serious matter. We will examine if the college followed proper procedures,” she said.
A Village in Mourning
The student belonged to a small village near Balasore. Her funeral drew hundreds of people, including politicians, activists, and locals.
Her parents were inconsolable. “We don’t want money. We want justice,” her mother said. “My daughter deserved to live, not suffer like this.”
Local leaders also raised concerns about the college’s past behavior. “This is not the first time students have complained. The administration often ignores them,” said a local councillor.
A Broken System
Many believe this case exposes flaws in how colleges handle harassment. As per UGC rules, all colleges must have Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs). These committees should handle student complaints fairly and quickly.
Student unions are now demanding a state-level review of ICCs. They also want a helpline to report cases outside of colleges.
“We need safe spaces for students to speak up,” said Priyanka Das, a student leader from Bhubaneswar. “Right now, many are too scared to file complaints.”
Statewide Reactions
The case has triggered protests in several Odisha cities. Students held candlelight vigils in Bhubaneswar, Sambalpur, and Cuttack. They demanded justice and stricter rules for college administrators.
Former CM Naveen Patnaik also reacted. “This is heartbreaking. We must act so this never happens again,” he posted on social media.
The Odisha Women’s Commission has started its own inquiry. Its chairperson met students and staff at the college to gather more information.
Looking Ahead
While the financial aid offers some relief, many believe it isn’t enough. Activists and educators say the government must fix the broken system.
“This girl’s death is a wake-up call,” said sociologist Dr. Bijaylaxmi Mishra. “Students go to college to learn, not suffer abuse. We must protect them.”
Conclusion
The Balasore student’s death has sparked a wave of anger and sorrow. Her story shows how institutions can fail the very people they should protect. As Odisha promises justice, the nation watches closely—hoping that change will finally follow.
