Odisha is reeling after a brutal crime in Puri district, where a 15-year-old schoolgirl was ambushed, doused with petrol, and set ablaze by three unidentified men while on her way to a friend’s house in Bayabar village. According to the Hindustan Times, the attack occurred around 8:30 am, as the girl was intercepted by the assailants, dragged toward the riverbank, and set on fire. Hearing her screams, locals rushed to extinguish the flames and transported her first to a local clinic and then to AIIMS Bhubaneswar. She remains in critical condition with approximately 70 percent burns on her torso and lower body.
Massive Medical and Administrative Response
State authorities acted immediately following the incident. Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, who oversees the Women and Child Development Department, visited the hospital and assured the family that the government will bear all medical expenses. At AIIMS Bhubaneswar, a team of 14 specialists has been constituted for continuous care. The victim is still conscious but critically ill, and hospital experts are monitoring her situation closely, providing daily updates.
Investigation and Hunt for Suspects
Law enforcement agencies have launched a large-scale manhunt for the attackers. Multiple police teams are involved, with forensic specialists collecting evidence and reviewing CCTV footage from the area. Several suspects have been questioned, but no arrests have been made so far. District officials emphasized their commitment to pursuing the case with the “utmost seriousness,” assuring the public that those responsible will be brought to justice.
Community and Political Reactions
The attack has sparked public protests, visits from political leaders, and widespread debate about women’s safety in Odisha. Representatives from major political parties, including Congress and BJD, visited the hospital to meet the victim’s family and have demanded swift arrests and systemic reforms. Former chief minister Naveen Patnaik and others have condemned the incident, calling it a grim indicator of the violence women continue to face.
Pattern of Violence: Echoes of Recent Tragedies
This horrific episode comes just days after a 20-year-old college student in Balasore district died by self-immolation, having alleged sexual harassment and a lack of response from college authorities. These consecutive incidents have shocked the state, reigniting debate over the effectiveness of law enforcement and the urgent need to protect girls and women from violence and harassment.
National Context and Rising Trend
Across India, attacks where women and girls are set on fire or targeted with acids and flammable liquids remain an ongoing crisis. Statistics reveal the persistence of such brutality and the challenges faced by authorities when it comes to prevention, justice, and the long-term support needed for survivors. Recent months have seen similar attacks in other states, strengthening calls for legal reform and community action.
The Road Ahead
As the investigation into the Puri attack continues, the demand for justice and meaningful improvements in women’s safety is growing stronger. Authorities have promised urgent action and the entire community is rallying to support the survivor and family. Odisha faces a defining moment: whether these tragedies will lead to genuine, systemic change remains to be seen. For now, the focus remains firmly on bringing perpetrators to justice and ensuring no such horror is repeated.
Photo Credit: HT
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