Odisha’s Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik expressed profound grief and outrage over the tragic death of a minor girl from Gaesilat, Bargarh, who reportedly set herself on fire.
In a heartfelt post on X, Patnaik mourned the loss and condemned the BJP-led state government for its alleged failure to protect young girls from recurring tragedies.
“Deeply saddened, shocked and anguished,” Patnaik wrote, highlighting that this was the fourth such incident in a month where young girls in Odisha have taken their own lives under similar circumstances. He described the pattern as “deeply disturbing” and indicative of a systemic failure.
“These four deaths are not stray cases,” he emphasised. “There are many such girls who are dying in the most tragic way possible after being subjected to crime every day. Their desperation is not just personal tragedy. Each tragedy reflects the failure to hear their screams.”
Patnaik accused the BJP administration of fostering an environment where the daughters of Odisha feel unsafe and unheard. “The traumatic silence and inaction from the BJP Govt leave the daughters of Odisha more vulnerable,” he stated, demanding immediate action to halt the heartbreaking trend.
Deeply saddened, shocked and anguished to know that another girl from Gaesilat, Bargarh has died after setting herself on fire. My condolences for the young girl and prayers are with the family members in the hour of grief. May God give the family members strength to bear this…
— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) August 12, 2025
The incident has sparked widespread concern across the state, with citizens and activists calling for stronger protective measures, mental health support, and justice for victims of gender-based violence.
