Odisha Crime Branch files charge-sheet in self-immolation by girl on college campus

The Crime Branch of Odisha Police on Tuesday (September 9, 2025) filed a chargesheet in connection with the self-immolation of a 20-year-old student, allegedly harassed by her teacher on the campus of F. M. Autonomous College in Balasore — an incident that had sparked nationwide outrage.

According to sources, Samira Kumar Sahoo, Head of Education Department, against whom the girl had lodged complaint, and Dillip Ghosh, principal of college, were charged of abetting suicide.

The 504-page chargesheet containing an elaboration on the incidents leading to self-immolation by the girls was filed before the court of the sub-divisional judicial magistrate in Balasore. As many as 120 witnesses were listed in the case, says State Home Department in a statement.

Both Sahoo and Ghose were charged under Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita section 108 (abetment of suicide) that carries imprisonment for 10 years and fine, section 351 (2) (criminal intimidation) and section 3(5) (common intention).

The 20-year-old girl had accused her teacher, Samira Sahoo, of harassing her. However, her repeated grievances had not been redressed. She had finally set herself on fire after rushing out of the office of the Principal on July 12. Two days after, with 95% burn injuries, she died in AIIMS, Bhubaneswar.