Follow us
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday said the health condition of the college student who attempted self-immolation over alleged sexual harassment by a teacher in Balasore remains “critical” and assured that the state government would take strict action against those responsible.
Majhi made the statement after visiting AIIMS Bhubaneswar, where the 20-year-old student is receiving treatment for severe burn injuries.
“The condition of the student is critical. She is being given treatment similar to what is provided at AIIMS Delhi. A dedicated medical team has been formed for her care. The government will consider airlifting her once her condition stabilises,” Majhi told reporters outside the hospital.
The chief minister, who was on a three-day tour of the national capital, returned to Bhubaneswar on Monday and went directly from the airport to the hospital to check on the student’s condition.
Majhi said the state government is taking the matter “very seriously” and that the Higher Education Department has already set up a high-level committee to investigate the incident in detail.
“We will take strong action as soon as the committee’s report is available. The government will also take steps to ensure that such incidents do not happen again in any educational institution in Odisha,” he said.
The chief minister met the student’s parents and family members at the hospital and assured them of all possible support. Odisha Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling and Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj had earlier visited the hospital to take stock of the situation.
Meanwhile, the state government has placed two teachers, including the principal of Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College in Balasore, under suspension. The teacher accused of sexual harassment has been suspended and arrested in connection with the case.
