Bhubaneswar, Odisha – A 20-year-old college student, who set herself on fire on July 12 after alleging sexual harassment by her Head of Department (HOD), succumbed to her injuries late Monday night at AIIMS Bhubaneswar. The tragic incident has sparked widespread outrage and led to the arrest of both the accused professor and the college principal.

The Incident

The student, identified as Soumyashree Bishoi, was pursuing a second-year Integrated B.Ed program. She had reportedly faced months of sexual and mental harassment from HoD Samir Kumar Sahu, and despite filing multiple complaints with the college principal and authorities, no action was taken. On July 12, during a peaceful protest outside the principal’s office, she poured petrol on herself and set herself on fire, sustaining 95% burn injuries. A fellow student who tried to save her also suffered serious burns.

Medical Response & Death

Soumyashree was rushed to Balasore District Headquarters Hospital and later shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar, where she was placed on mechanical ventilation and underwent renal replacement therapy. Despite intensive care, she was declared clinically dead at 11:46 PM on July 14

Arrests & Government Action

Following public outrage, Odisha Police arrested both the accused HoD Samir Kumar Sahu and suspended principal Dilip Ghose, who was later also arrested for allegedly pressuring the student to withdraw her complaint2.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep sorrow and assured the victim’s family of strictest legal action against all those found guilty. He stated, “Despite the government’s efforts and expert medical care, her life could not be saved. We stand firmly with the family and will ensure justice is served”