Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has provided a compensation of Rs 20 lakh to the family of Soumyashree Bisi, a 20-year-old student of Fakir Mohan Autonomous College in Balasore, who tragically died after attempting self-immolation due to alleged harassment.
Balasore MP Pratap Sarangi met the family and handed over a cheque of Rs 20 lakh as part of the state government’s ex-gratia announced by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
The Chief Minister had announced the compensation on July 15, 2025, from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund, ensuring the family receives the necessary support during this difficult time. Additionally, the Balasore Red Cross provided Rs 25,000 as aid to the family.
Soumyashree, a B.Ed student, had alleged sexual harassment by the Head of the Department, Samir Kumar Sahu, which led to her drastic action. Despite the college administration’s alleged inaction on her complaint, Sahu has been arrested under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Sahu along with the College Principal Dilip Ghosh were arrested in the case. The State Government has also suspended both of them.
The state government has assured strict action against those responsible for Soumyashree’s death. The investigation is underway by the State Crime Branch.
