Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief and former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on the state government over the death of a 20-year-old college student from Balasore, calling it the result of a “failed system” and “institutional betrayal.”
The student, from Fakir Mohan Autonomous College, died after setting herself on fire, allegedly in protest over prolonged sexual harassment by her professor and repeated institutional neglect of her complaints.
In a strongly worded post on X, Patnaik wrote: “It is even more disturbing to think how a failed system can take someone’s life. The most painful part is that this was not an accident, but rather the result of a system that remained silent instead of helping.”
He pointed out that despite the victim’s persistent attempts to seek justice—writing to the principal, the Higher Education Minister, the Chief Minister’s office, and even a Union Minister—her cries were ignored.
“With great courage, she had written to the college principal… Even after being ignored, she did not give up. She met the Balasore MP and approached various officials. Still, no one acted,” Patnaik said.
Holding the current state government directly responsible, Patnaik described her death as “planned injustice”, and not merely a tragic accident.
“She did not lose her life solely due to physical trauma, but also because of the state government’s negligence, which left her alone in her struggle. This is nothing less than institutional betrayal,” he said.
Calling for accountability, Patnaik appealed to Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati to ensure that both the perpetrators and those in power who failed to act face consequences.
“I urge the Hon’ble Governor to ensure that not only college authorities, but also those in power who ignored her desperate pleas, are held accountable,” Patnaik said.
The student was confirmed dead at AIIMS Bhubaneswar on Monday night after battling for three days in the ICU. She was initially referred from Balasore District Hospital following her self-immolation on July 12.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage across the state, with political leaders, students, and civil society groups demanding justice and institutional reform.
