A tragic and deeply disturbing incident unfolded in Odisha’s Puri district on 19 July, when unidentified assailants set a minor girl ablaze near Balanga.
After sustaining 70 per cent burn injuries, doctors at AIIMS Bhubaneswar stabilised her condition and are now airlifting her to AIIMS Delhi for specialised treatment.
Dr Asutosh Biswas, Executive Director of AIIMS Bhubaneswar, confirmed the transfer, “The girl’s condition is now stable enough for transfer. A special flight has been arranged, and AIIMS Delhi has been informed.”
The swift coordination between state and central health authorities underlines the seriousness of the case and the urgency for advanced medical intervention.
According to the victim’s family, the girl was ambushed near a river embankment in Balanga. The perpetrators allegedly poured petrol and kerosene over her before setting her on fire.
In a desperate bid for survival, the girl fled to a nearby house, where locals rescued her and took her to Pipili Community Health Centre.
Doctors later referred her to AIIMS Bhubaneswar due to the severity of her injuries.
Police Action and SIT Formation
In response, the Odisha Police have launched an extensive investigation.
The authorities have constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT), led by Balanga IIC Shri Dibya Ranjan Panda, to fast-track the probe.
Scientific teams, including K9 units, have inspected the crime scene, and senior officers are closely supervising the case.
Police have registered an FIR under Malanga PS Case No 162/2025, filing charges under Sections 127(2), 109, 123, and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Police have assured the public of a thorough investigation and stringent action against the culprits.
The incident has triggered widespread outrage across Odisha, reigniting debates over women’s safety.
The brutality of the attack comes close on the heels of another tragic case—a 20-year-old B Ed student from Balasore who died after self-immolating in protest against alleged sexual harassment and police inaction.
As public anger mounts and political leaders demand accountability, the government faces pressure to deliver swift justice and introduce robust measures for protecting women across the state.
While the girl’s recovery remains a priority, the focus now also turns to ensuring justice and systemic reform.
With the SIT now in place and the case under high-level scrutiny, authorities are preparing to take decisive action in the coming days.
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