Girl Suffering Severe Burns from July 19 Incident in Puri, Passes Away at AIIMS Delhi; Odisha Chief Minister Offers Sympathies
In a heartbreaking incident, a 15-year-old girl from Balanga area in Odisha's Puri district succumbed to her injuries on Friday night, nearly two weeks after she was abducted and set on fire by unidentified individuals. The girl, who was airlifted to AIIMS Delhi for specialized care due to her critical condition, died despite intense treatment efforts.
The incident occurred on July 19, near the banks of the Bhargavi River in Puri. The girl was taken to a secluded location, doused with a flammable substance, and set on fire by the miscreants. Locals rescued her and rushed her to a local hospital.
Despite the best efforts of the medical team, the girl's condition remained critical. Given the nature of her injuries, she was airlifted to New Delhi and admitted to the Burn ICU of the Burn and Plastic Surgery Department at AIIMS on July 20. Doctors reported that she was conscious, oriented, and stable, though dependent on oxygen support.
The attack has sparked outrage across the state, with the Chief Minister, Mohan Charan Majhi, expressing deep sorrow over the girl's death. He wrote a post on X expressing his condolences and extended his sympathies to the family. The Odisha Deputy Chief Minister, Pravati Parida, also expressed her condolences over the teen's demise.
The police have launched an intensive investigation to apprehend the perpetrators. The victim's mother alleged in her FIR that three unknown men were involved in the kidnapping and setting her daughter on fire. However, the Odisha Police, after investigation, stated they found no evidence implicating others in the crime beyond what was initially reported.
The death of the girl was confirmed by Chief Minister Majhi on Saturday. He prayed for the eternal peace of the girl's soul and strength for her family. The brutal nature of the attack has left many in shock and disbelief. The police investigations are ongoing, and the perpetrators remain unidentified and at large.
In memory of the brave girl, let us stand together in solidarity, demanding justice for her and all victims of such heinous crimes. May her soul rest in peace.
References:
- The New Indian Express
- The Times of India
- The Indian Express
War-and-conflicts and politics intertwine in the tragic death of a 15-year-old girl, as the incident sparks outrage across the state, attracting widespread attention in general news outlets and prompting the Chief Minister to express his condolences on X. Crime-and-justice takes center stage with the launch of an intensive investigation by the Odisha Police to identify and apprehend the perpetrators, though the matter remains unsolved.
