Puri, July 19(OT webdesk): In a shocking incident that has stirred public outrage across Odisha, a 15-year-old girl from Bayabar, Nimapada Tehsil, was allegedly set on fire by three unidentified men while she was heading to a friend’s house around 8:30 a.m. on Saturday.
The attack occurred near a secluded stretch by the Bhargavi River, just 1.5 km from Balanga police station.
According to eyewitnesses, the men forcibly lifted the girl, poured a flammable substance, and ignited it before fleeing the scene.
The critically injured victim was first rushed to Pipili Community Health Centre and later shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar due to the severity of her burns, which affected her hands, legs, and torso.
The victim’s family ruled out personal or romantic motives and called for urgent police intervention. So far, no arrests have been made.
Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida expressed deep sorrow and pledged full medical support.
She confirmed via social media that the government would bear all treatment costs and has instructed law enforcement to swiftly apprehend the accused.
This incident follows another brutal case in Balasore earlier this week, sparking renewed concerns over women’s safety and police responsiveness in the state.
