Odisha Tragedy: FM College Student's Mortal Remains Laid to Rest Amid Grief, Outrage

The girl’s final journey drew a sea of mourners—heartbroken family, friends, and villagers, who stood in stunned silence or sobbed openly, remembering her as a bright, determined young woman failed by the very system meant to protect her.

On Saturday, the girl had set herself ablaze near the Principal’s office on the college campus, in a harrowing act of protest against the alleged prolonged sexual harassment by the Sameer Kumar Sahoo, head of the education department. Despite repeated complaints, she reportedly received no meaningful support from the college administration.

Fellow students rushed to save her. She was first admitted to a hospital in Balasore and later shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar, battling for life with 95 per cent burns. After nearly 60 hours in critical condition, she succumbed late Monday night.

The tragic incident has triggered widespread anger and soul-searching across Odisha. As her body reached Palasia, chants of justice mingled with tears. Villagers remembered her not just as a student, but as a symbol of courage and resistance against institutional neglect.

Amid mounting public outrage, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday announced an ex gratia of Rs 20 lakh for the bereaved family and promised a thorough probe.

"All those found guilty will be brought to justice," a statement from the Chief Minister's Office affirmed.

Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati also voiced his sorrow on social media:

“Shattered to learn of the untimely loss of a young student from Fakir Mohan College. Her death is not just a tragedy—it’s a warning. Our campuses must be made safe for all.”

“The law will take its toughest course. Those responsible will face stern consequences.”

Following initial investigations, both the college principal Dilip Ghosh and the accused department head, Sameer Kumar Sahoo, have been arrested.