Incident Sparks Debate

A tragic incident from Balanga, Puri, has ignited fierce debate in the Odisha Assembly, raising serious questions about police accountability. What initially appeared to be a gang attack is now officially classified as a suicide, triggering allegations of a cover-up to protect the real perpetrators.

FIR and Initial Investigation

The controversy began when the victim’s mother lodged an FIR at Balanga police station, alleging that unidentified men had dragged her daughter to a riverbank, doused her with kerosene and petrol, and attempted to set her on fire. The severely injured girl was airlifted to AIIMS, Delhi, for specialized treatment.

Dying Declaration Changes the Narrative

After 14 days of intensive care, the girl tragically passed away. In a dying declaration, she revealed that she had self-immolated, contradicting the initial claim of an attack. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi confirmed this account in response to BJD MLA Ananta Narayan Jena, raising questions about whether the first police report was compromised due to missing witnesses or intentional shielding of culprits.

Questions on Police Accountability

MLA Jena demanded clarity:

“Did the victim name three culprits in her statement, or are the police shielding the true offenders without eyewitness corroboration?”

While the Chief Minister adhered to the factual shift from attempted murder to self-harm, doubts about the integrity of the investigation persist. Women’s rights activists have called for a judicial inquiry, expressing concern that the narrative change may obscure justice for the grieving family.

Rising Student Tragedies

During the Assembly session, Chief Minister Majhi highlighted a disturbing rise in student suicides over the past 15 months. 22 students from government and private institutions lost their lives, with Rayagada district recording the highest toll at four. Majhi emphasized the need for robust mental health support, pledging enhanced counselling and awareness initiatives.

Calls for Reform

These revelations underscore systemic vulnerabilities in Odisha, from gendered violence to youth mental health crises. The Assembly spotlight raises the question: will these discussions translate into real reforms, or will they fade into political rhetoric? The victim’s final words demand accountability and action.

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