Odisha: A horrifying incident occurred in Puri on Saturday morning when a 15-year-old schoolgirl was allegedly doused in flames by three unidentified men. The Class 12 student was reportedly on her way to deliver books to a friend, when the attack took place around 8:30 am, not far from a local police station.
As per eyewitness accounts, the three assailants intercepted the teenager near a remote area by the Bhargavi River, forcibly restrained her, and set her on fire before fleeing the scene.
Hearing her screams, nearby residents rushed to help, extinguished the flames, and transported her to the Pipili Community Health Centre. Due to the critical nature of her burns, she was later referred to Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar for advanced care.
Officials confirmed that the girl had suffered severe burn wounds across her arms, legs, and torso. Her family has denied any history of personal disputes or romantic involvement, ruling out motives of revenge or relationship-based conflict.
The attackers remain unidentified, and police teams have launched a manhunt to trace the culprits.
Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, who also oversees the Women and Child Development Department, condemned the act. She assured the public that the victim was shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar and that the state government will bear all medical expenses.
“The police have been instructed to swiftly arrest those responsible and ensure strict legal action,” she stated.