In a shocking turn of events outside FM College in Balasore, a female student allegedly attempted suicide by setting herself on fire, citing harassment by a faculty member.
Another student, who rushed to rescue her, sustained critical burn injuries. Both have been admitted to Balasore hospital and later shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar for advanced treatment.
As per reports, the student was a second-year student of the Integrated B.Ed program in the college. She reportedly couldn’t bear the mistreatment by the Head of Department and set herself ablaze. She had also staged a protest alleging harassment.
The incident has sparked a wave of concern across campus and beyond, raising alarm bells about the safety and ethical climate in educational institutions. Preliminary reports suggest the student had previously voiced complaints against a faculty member, alleging inappropriate behaviour.
Authorities are investigating the matter, and college officials have declined to comment until a formal inquiry is initiated. Meanwhile, activists and students are calling for a transparent probe and systemic safeguards to prevent such tragedies in the future.
This case throws a spotlight on the pressing need for student protection policies and psychological support systems within campuses. As social media buzzes with sympathy and outrage, it remains to be seen how swiftly the administration responds to this heartbreaking episode.
