15-Year-Old Odisha Girl Set Ablaze in Puri Dies at AIIMS Delhi; Outrage Grows Over Lack of Arrests
New Delhi, Aug 2 (The Trending People): In a deeply distressing incident that has sent shockwaves across Odisha, a 15-year-old girl from Puri district, who was set ablaze by three unidentified attackers, succumbed to her injuries at AIIMS Delhi late Friday night. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi confirmed her death on Saturday, expressing deep sorrow and pledging support to the grieving family.
The teenager had sustained over 70% burns in the horrific attack that occurred on July 19, near the banks of the Bhargavi River in Puri, while she was reportedly returning home after visiting a friend. According to initial reports, the assailants abducted her, took her to a secluded spot, doused her with a flammable liquid, and set her on fire.
Final Goodbye Despite All Efforts
Despite being critically injured, the brave girl managed to run towards a nearby residence where locals rescued her. She was first taken to a local hospital and later airlifted to AIIMS Delhi on July 20 due to the severity of her burns. The girl remained under intensive care in the Burns and Plastic Surgery ICU, and even underwent a skin grafting procedure as part of her treatment.
Doctors had earlier reported that she was stable, conscious, and oriented, though on oxygen support. But her condition deteriorated by Friday evening, and she ultimately passed away.
Chief Minister Majhi, in a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter), said:
“I am deeply shocked to hear the news of the death of the girl from the Balanga area. Despite all efforts of the government and the medical team at AIIMS Delhi, her life could not be saved. I pray for her soul’s eternal peace and strength to her family in this moment of irreparable loss.”
Political Reactions and Statewide Mourning
Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida also offered condolences:
“Following an unfortunate incident, the victim from Balangir, who was under treatment at Delhi AIIMS, has passed away. While praying for her eternal peace, I express condolences to her family. Despite every effort by the medical team, she could not be saved.”
The girl’s death has intensified public anger and calls for justice. Civil society members, child rights activists, and political leaders across party lines have condemned the crime and demanded immediate action.
Police Investigation Under Fire
The Odisha Police have launched an intensive investigation, but as of now, no arrests have been made. The delay in identifying and apprehending the perpetrators has drawn criticism from activists and the public alike. With mounting pressure from various quarters, police officials have stated that CCTV footage is being analyzed and multiple suspects are under surveillance.
A senior police officer involved in the probe stated, “We are leaving no stone unturned to bring the culprits to justice. A dedicated team has been formed, and forensic evidence is being closely examined.”
Calls for Justice and Accountability
The tragic death has reignited concerns about women’s and girls’ safety in Odisha and across the country. Many are comparing this case to other high-profile gender-based violence incidents that exposed serious flaws in law enforcement responsiveness.
Prominent human rights organizations have urged the state government to fast-track the investigation and extend financial and psychological support to the victim’s family. They are also demanding the formation of a special task force to handle the case.
Social media has been flooded with messages under hashtags like #JusticeForPuriGirl and #StopViolenceAgainstWomen, with users demanding swift justice and harsher penalties for crimes against minors.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople.com
The tragic loss of a young life in such a brutal manner demands more than condolences—it demands accountability and change. While the state government’s prompt action in providing treatment is commendable, the failure to arrest the perpetrators weeks after the incident is deeply concerning. Justice delayed is justice denied, and the people of Odisha—and India—await swift and decisive action.