Bhubaneswar, July 19: The cousin of a minor girl who was brutally set on fire by unidentified miscreants in Balanga, Puri district, has called for the death penalty for those responsible. The horrific incident has left the victim with 70 per cent burn injuries, and she remains in critical condition at AIIMS Bhubaneswar.
According to the victim’s cousin, the girl was on her way to meet friends around 8:30 AM when she was abducted midway, taken to a riverside, and set on fire. “She somehow managed to reach a nearby house, where locals gave her clothes and contacted us,” he said. "We immediately rushed her to the hospital, and she was later referred to AIIMS."
An FIR has been lodged, and police have begun their investigation. “We don’t yet know who the attackers are. She saw them and may be able to identify them once her condition improves. Doctors have told us her burns cover 70% of her body and she is in a critical state. We have been advised to remain patient,” the cousin added.
The incident took place under the jurisdiction of Balanga Police Station in the Nimapada block of Puri district.
Puri District Magistrate Chanchal Rana stated that the administration is taking the matter very seriously. “Senior officials have been dispatched to the spot. All medical expenses will be covered by the district administration and the state government. We hope for her swift recovery. The police will take all necessary actions to bring the culprits to justice,” he assured.
This shocking case has emerged just days after another tragic incident in Balasore, where a female student from FM (Auto) College attempted self-immolation on campus on July 12. She sustained over 90 per cent burns and succumbed to her injuries on July 14 at AIIMS Bhubaneswar.
