Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, and Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj on Tuesday expressed deep grief over the death of a 20-year-old student of Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College in Balasore, who had attempted self-immolation on campus on July 12 over alleged sexual harassment.
The student succumbed to his injuries late Monday night at AIIMS Bhubaneswar.
In a statement posted on social media platform X, Chief Minister Majhi said he was “deeply saddened” by the student’s death, adding that despite all efforts by the government and a team of expert doctors, the student could not be saved.
“I pray to Lord Jagannath to give strength to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss,” he said.
“I assure the family that strict action will be taken against all those responsible. I have personally instructed officials to ensure the culprits face the full force of the law. The government stands firmly with the family in this hour of grief.”
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida also condoled the student’s death.
“Despite all efforts by the government and the medical team, his life could not be saved. I pray for his soul’s eternal peace and offer my heartfelt condolences to his family,” she said.
Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj called the incident “heartbreaking” and reiterated the state government’s commitment to justice.
“We have already initiated proceedings to ensure the strictest punishment under a zero-tolerance policy. What happened should never have occurred. We are committed to preventing such incidents in the future,” he said.
“I am at a loss for words to condemn the tragedy. May the Lord give the family strength during this difficult time.”
The incident has sparked public outrage and raised serious concerns over campus safety and the handling of harassment complaints in educational institutions.
