In a deeply disturbing turn of events, a second-year integrated B.Ed student at FM College, identified as Soumyashree Biswal, attempted self-immolation outside the college gate after allegedly facing months of mental and moral harassment by a faculty member.
According to eyewitness accounts, the student doused herself in petrol and set herself ablaze during a peaceful protest. Despite urgent efforts by peers to rescue her, by the time help arrived, over 90% of her body had sustained burns. She was initially admitted to the Balasore District Hospital and later referred to AIIMS Bhubaneswar due to her critical condition.
The accused lecturer, Sameer Sahoo, Head of the Education Department, has been detained at Sahadevkhunta police station for interrogation. Students and civil society groups are demanding an impartial investigation into the allegations, which include academic coercion, threats of failure, and unethical conduct.
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Witnesses claim that the student had previously approached the principal’s office, and moments after returning, was seen ablaze in front of the college premises. Another student who attempted to help has also been hospitalised with serious injuries.
Eyewitnesses have condemned the staff for showing “zero humanitarian response” during the incident, alleging that despite being present, none of the college personnel attempted to assist.
The brother of the victim girl who attempted self-immolation stated that the Head of the Education Department demanded personal favours from his sister, threatening her with failure if she did not comply.
He claims she was mentally tortured and told outright that she wouldn’t pass unless she conceded. Fellow students corroborated this statement, alleging she was repeatedly harassed by the same lecturer. One peer revealed that her association with a student union led to targeted intimidation, further worsening the situation.
