A 16-year-old minor girl from Balanga village in Puri district, who suffered 75% burn injuries after being allegedly set on fire by three miscreants, was airlifted from AIIMS Bhubaneswar to AIIMS Delhi on Sunday for advanced medical care.
The victim was flown in an air ambulance from Biju Patnaik International Airport, accompanied by two family members and a medical team from AIIMS Bhubaneswar. She has been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of AIIMS Delhi and placed under oxygen support and 48-hour observation. Doctors reported that most burns were of second- and third-degree, but the victim is conscious and able to speak.
Earlier, AIIMS Bhubaneswar Director Dr. Ashutosh Biswas confirmed arrangements had been made with AIIMS Delhi, including securing a bed for the patient. A dedicated green corridor was created from AIIMS Bhubaneswar to the airport, under tight security and amidst heavy public attention.
The Odisha government had promised to bear all medical expenses, assuring the best possible care for the girl. A 14-member medical team was involved in her treatment at AIIMS Bhubaneswar prior to the airlift.
Case Background & Investigation:
On July 19, the minor girl was allegedly attacked in broad daylight near the Bhargavi river by three unidentified men who set her on fire while she was on her way to meet a friend. Locals responded to her cries and extinguished the flames, after which she was initially treated at a nearby facility before being shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar.
Though eight people have been detained for questioning—including relatives and her fiancé—no arrests have been made yet, and police have not identified the attackers. The lack of concrete leads, even after 24 hours, has sparked public outrage.
On Sunday, tensions escalated outside Balanga Police Station as BJD workers protested, demanding swift action. They allegedly tried to enter the station forcibly, resulting in a scuffle with the police. The protestors accused authorities of inaction and slow investigation, further intensifying public anger.
