NHRC Orders ATR in Balasore FM College Harassment Case

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued urgent directives following a disturbing case from Odisha’s Balasore district, where a girl student from Fakir Mohan College reportedly attempted self-immolation after facing prolonged sexual harassment from a professor.

In a complaint filed by Human Rights Front India Chairperson Manoj Jena, it was revealed that the victim had approached both the college principal and the internal complaints committee but received no response. The continued negligence allegedly pushed the student toward the drastic action. She is currently hospitalised with severe burn injuries and remains in critical condition.

Taking cognisance of the complaint, the NHRC directed the District Magistrate and Chief Medical Officer of Balasore to ensure comprehensive medical care for the victim. The Superintendent of Police has also been asked to submit a detailed Action Taken Report (ATR) within 15 days, including all related materials for review.

Initial steps have already been taken by the authorities, with the suspension of both the accused professor and the college principal. An investigation team has been constituted, but the NHRC has emphasised the need for a fair and high-level inquiry, strict accountability, and long-term measures to prevent such incidents in educational institutions.

This incident has reignited debates around campus safety, institutional accountability, and the efficacy of internal complaints mechanisms in colleges across India.