Odisha: Collegian torches self over teacher’s ‘abuse’

BHUBANESWAR: A 20-year-old college student in Odisha's Balasore set herself on fire outside campus Saturday after accusing a senior faculty member of sexual harassment and institutional apathy.

A male student who tried to rescue her suffered burn injuries. Both were rushed to Balasore district hospital and the woman, with over 90 per cent burns, was later shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar in critical condition.Students had been protesting since July 1, demanding action against the accused education department head, who was arrested after the incident. Education department head Samira Kumar Sahu was arrested on charges of sexual harassment and abetment of suicide attempt. An FIR has been registered and police presence was tightened around the campus.