A horrific incident unfolded in Odisha's Puri district on Saturday, where a 15-year-old girl was set on fire by unidentified individuals. The victim, who sustained severe 70% burn injuries, is currently battling for her life and is undergoing intensive treatment. Initially admitted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar, her critical condition led to plans for her immediate airlifting to AIIMS Delhi for advanced medical care.

According to Prof.(DR.) Ashutosh Biswas, Executive Director of AIIMS Bhubaneswar, the girl's condition, though critical, showed signs of stabilization, with slight improvements in her blood pressure, liver, and kidney functions. A specialized team of doctors from AIIMS Delhi was dispatched to accompany her during the transfer via a special chartered flight, ensuring a safe journey. A family member was also arranged to travel alongside her, highlighting the urgency and seriousness of her situation.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi swiftly intervened, stating the state government's full commitment to providing the best possible treatment. He confirmed the decision to airlift the minor girl to AIIMS Delhi based on medical advice. CM Majhi emphasized that despite the extensive burns, the victim was still able to communicate. He further assured a thorough investigation into the incident, pledging strict legal action against those responsible and vowing to uncover any potential conspiracy behind the heinous act.

The incident occurred around 9 am at Bayabar village within the Balanga police station area. Preliminary investigations by the police revealed a chilling sequence of events: three unidentified youths, riding motorcycles, intercepted the girl as she was returning from a friend's house. They forcibly took her to the banks of the Bhargavi River, where they poured an inflammable substance on her before setting her ablaze. The perpetrators then fled the scene. The incident spot was approximately 1.5 km from her home in Nuagopalpur Bustee.

Local residents promptly rushed to her aid, dousing the flames before shifting her to Pipili government hospital. From there, she was transferred to AIIMS Bhubaneswar due to the severity of her injuries. The girl's cousin corroborated parts of the account, stating she was abducted midway while out with friends and taken to the riverside before being set on fire. After the attack, she managed to reach someone's house, from where she was taken to the hospital.

The shocking incident has drawn widespread condemnation and has brought to light concerns regarding women's safety in the state. Biju Janata Dal (BJD) Chief Naveen Patnaik severely criticized the ruling BJP government, expressing deep anguish over the incident and lamenting the "unthinkable incidents against women" now being reported almost daily across Odisha. This incident closely follows another tragic case: a female student's self-immolation attempt on July 12 at Balasore's FM (Auto) college, who later succumbed to her 90% burn injuries on July 14, further intensifying public outcry and protests.