Bhubaneswar- Shortly after the news of the death of a 16-year-old girl from Balanga surfaced, the Odisha Police announced that no evidence has been found so far indicating the involvement of any other person in the incident. The girl, who had sustained critical burn injuries, passed away after battling for her life for nearly two weeks at AIIMS, New Delhi.
The police, in a social media post, informed that the investigation has been carried out with utmost care and is nearing completion. They appealed to the public not to jump to conclusions or make sensational claims until the facts are fully established.
The girl was reportedly set ablaze on July 19 in Odisha’s Puri district, after three unidentified individuals allegedly intercepted her, covered her face with a handkerchief, poured a flammable substance, and set her on fire. The incident took place just a few kilometers from the Balanga police station. She suffered 75% burns and was initially treated at AIIMS Bhubaneswar before being airlifted to New Delhi for further treatment.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed his condolences on social media, stating that despite the best efforts of doctors and the state’s intervention, the young girl could not be saved. He offered prayers and support to the grieving family. Deputy Chief Minister and Nimapara MLA Pravati Parida also conveyed her sorrow over the tragic loss.
Earlier, Puri SP Pinak Mishra had confirmed that the victim’s statement was officially recorded at AIIMS New Delhi by the Balanga Police Station’s Inspector-in-Charge in the presence of a woman Deputy Superintendent of Police, ensuring procedural sensitivity and care during the process.
