Former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has strongly criticised the BJP-led state government after a 13-year-old girl from Bargarh district died on Monday following an alleged self-immolation attempt. Patnaik accused the administration of “failing to create confidence in the system where our daughters feel safe, valued, and heard.”
Expressing grief in an X post, Patnaik said, “Deeply saddened, shocked, and anguished to know that another girl from Gaesilat, Bargarh has died after setting herself on fire… May God give the family strength to bear this irreparable loss.”
He highlighted a disturbing trend, noting that four young girls have died in similar circumstances within a month. “These are not stray cases. Each passing away reflects unbearable pain that led them to end their lives. Many such girls continue to suffer silently after being subjected to crimes every day,” he wrote.
Patnaik accused the BJP government of inaction, stating, “Each tragedy reflects the failure to hear their screams. The traumatic silence and inaction leave the daughters of Odisha more vulnerable. How long will the BJP Govt wait to stop this heartbreaking pattern?”
According to police, the victim was hospitalised after the incident but succumbed to her injuries. Inspector General (Northern Range) Himanshu Lal said, “Investigation is ongoing. Three to four teams have been formed, and interrogation is underway. Action will be taken as per law.”
