Bhubaneswar: Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) Yogesh Bahadur Khurania on Saturday termed the incident in Puri, where a Plus II girl was set on fire by miscreants, as “unfortunate” and assured that the culprits will be brought to justice at the earliest.
“After receiving information, the Puri SP reached the spot and initiated an investigation. Our teams are working on the case and I am confident the accused will be arrested soon. The law will take its course and strict action will be taken,” the DGP told reporters.
The horrific incident took place on Saturday morning at Bayabara village under Nimapara block in Puri district.
According to eyewitnesses, the 15-year-old victim was on her way to a friend’s house when three bike-borne youths intercepted her. They allegedly poured a flammable substance on her and set her ablaze before fleeing the scene.
Locals, alerted by her cries, rushed to the spot and took her to Pipili Hospital. She was later shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar in critical condition for specialized treatment.
Doctors at AIIMS confirmed that the girl sustained approximately 70% burn injuries. She was admitted to the emergency unit and later transferred to the Burn Centre for intensive care.
Meanwhile, Puri Superintendent of Police Pinak Mishra stated that strict action will be taken against anyone found to be involved in this crime. The case is being investigated from multiple angles.