The 16-year-old girl from Puri district, Odisha, who sustained 75% burn injuries after being allegedly set ablaze by unidentified miscreants, remains in a critical condition following surgery at AIIMS, New Delhi, according to an official statement from the hospital.
In a press release, AIIMS Delhi stated that the teenager underwent surgery for the treatment of extensive deep burns. “She is currently on oxygen support and remains in a critical condition. A dedicated team of doctors is closely monitoring her progress,” the hospital said.
The victim was airlifted from AIIMS Bhubaneswar to the Burns and Plastic Surgery Department at AIIMS Delhi on July 20 for advanced medical care. The incident reportedly occurred on July 19 in the Balanga area of Puri district. According to the girl’s cousin, she was abducted while out with friends, taken to a riverside location, and set on fire by unknown assailants. Despite her critical injuries, she managed to reach a nearby house and was rushed to a local hospital before being transferred.
A delegation from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), including Rajya Sabha MPs Sasmit Patra, Manas Ranjan Mangaraj, Sulata Deo, and Niranjan Bishi, visited the hospital on Monday. They met with the medical team and the girl’s family, assuring them of full support.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi confirmed that an investigation is underway. “Whoever is responsible will be caught. The government will ensure strict punishment under the law,” he stated, adding that authorities are probing whether a conspiracy was involved.
The horrific incident follows close on the heels of another tragic case — the self-immolation of a female student at Balasore’s FM (Auto) College. She sustained over 90% burns on July 12 and succumbed to her injuries at AIIMS Bhubaneswar on July 14.
