Bhubaneswar: After returning from New Delhi, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today visited AIIMS Bhubaneswar to inquire about the health condition of the Fakir Mohan Autonomous College student who attempted self-immolation over alleged harassment.

Speaking to mediapersons, the Chief Minister said the student is receiving treatment on par with AIIMS New Delhi standards at AIIMS Bhubaneswar. “A special team of expert doctors has been formed to oversee her treatment. A virtual consultation will be held with specialists from AIIMS New Delhi today. Next 24 hours will be crucial for the student,” he said.

Majhi added if her condition improves and the need arises, she will be airlifted to AIIMS New Delhi for further treatment. He also interacted with the student’s family during the hospital visit.

The Higher Education Department has already constituted a three-member inquiry committee to probe the harassment allegations. “Further action will be taken based on the committee’s findings,” Majhi stated. He also assured steps would be taken to prevent such incidents in educational institutions in the future.

Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) President Naveen Patnaik expressed anguish over the incident and urged Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati to ensure justice for the victim. Patnaik alleged despite multiple complaints to the college authorities and police, the student was denied justice.

Protesting the incident, members of the BJD’s student wing staged a demonstration at Lower PMG, Bhubaneswar, demanding the Chief Minister’s resignation. A scuffle broke out between the protesters and police during the agitation.

The victim, identified as Soumyashree, an Integrated B.Ed. student, attempted self-immolation in front of the college principal’s chamber after allegedly facing prolonged harassment by the Head of the Education Department, Samira Kumar Sahu. Sahu reportedly made inappropriate demands, issued threats, and warned of academic consequences if she did not comply.

Despite submitting repeated complaints to both the principal and local police, no substantial action was taken. Her appeals for justice were allegedly ignored.

Soumyashree, who sustained 90% burn injuries, is currently in critical condition. She was initially treated at the Balasore District Headquarters Hospital before being shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar for advanced care.

Following the incident, the Higher Education Department suspended Principal Dilip Ghose and HOD Samira Kumar Sahu. Sahu was later arrested by Sahadevkhunta Police.

An all-women eight-member team of the Odisha Congress will visit the Fakir Mohan Autonomous College, Balasore tomorrow for spot assessment.