Odisha girl, set ablaze days ago, succumbs in Delhi; cops say no one involved

New Delhi,UPDATED: Aug 2, 2025 23:59 IST

The 15-year-old girl, who was burnt alive on July 19 in Balanga of Puri district in Odisha, has succumbed to her injuries at AIIMS, Delhi.

"I am deeply saddened to hear the news of the death of the victim in the Balanga incident. Despite all the efforts of the government and the round-the-clock efforts of the expert medical team at AIIMS Delhi, his life could not be saved," tweeted Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.

On Friday, Odisha police recorded the victim's statement in the presence of a magistrate at AIIMS, Delhi.

Earlier, it was reported that three people were involved in the incident. However, Odisha police have claimed that they have entered the final stages of investigation and, according to their findings, no other person was involved in the incident.

"We are deeply saddened to hear the news of the death of the victim girl in the Balanga incident. The police have conducted the investigation with utmost sincerity. The investigation has reached its final stage. According to the investigation conducted so far, it is clear that no other person is involved. Therefore, we request everyone not to make any sensitive comments regarding this matter during this tragic moment," wrote Odisha Police on X.

The victim was initially rushed to Pipili Community Health Centre on July 19 and was shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar later on that day. She was airlifted to AIIMS, Delhi, the next day. She underwent at least two surgeries and skin grafting.

The girl was allegedly kidnapped and set on fire by three unknown people on the morning of July 19 on the banks of river Bhargavi in Puri district.

The incident took place when the minor was walking down to her house after meeting a friend. She was intercepted and abducted by three people who poured an inflammable substance and set her ablaze, her mother had stated in an FIR at Balanga Police Station.

"Don't do politics on my daughter's death. The government has cooperated as much as possible. My daughter has lost her life to mental depression" said the father of the deceased.

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