The tragic death of a 15-year-old girl from Odisha’s Puri district, who succumbed to severe burn injuries while undergoing treatment at AIIMS Delhi, has ignited sharp criticism of the law and order situation in the state. Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MP Amar Patnaik termed the incident a “grim reminder” of deteriorating public safety, especially concerning women.
The teenager was allegedly abducted and set ablaze by unidentified miscreants near a riverside in the Balanga area of Puri on July 19. After sustaining 75% burns, she was first admitted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar and later airlifted to AIIMS Delhi, where she passed away on Saturday.
Speaking to ANI, Amar Patnaik expressed deep concern: “Every day we hear such stories in Odisha. These incidents are a grim reminder of the failing law and order situation in the state, particularly as far as women are concerned. Odisha was known as a peaceful state, and that image has been shattered beyond words.”
Adding to the criticism, Congress MP Saptagiri Ulaka questioned the state government’s handling of the case and delay in arrests. “The people behind this incident have not been arrested till now. When will the state government wake up? The Odisha government is acting against the interest of women. Such incidents must not be repeated.”
According to police reports, the girl was allegedly kidnapped while out with friends and taken to a remote area where she was set on fire. Despite her injuries, she managed to reach a nearby home for help and was then taken to a hospital by a relative.
Former Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik expressed sorrow over the girl’s death, posting on X: “Deeply saddened and anguished… My condolences to the young girl and prayers are with the family members in their hour of grief.”
This case follows a recent incident in Balasore where a 20-year-old college student allegedly died by suicide after facing sexual harassment by a professor, further fueling public anger.
The series of incidents has led to mounting pressure on the Odisha government, with opposition parties accusing it of failing to protect women and maintain law and order.