15-Year-Old Girl Set on Fire in Odisha’s Puri District; Critical with 70% Burns

By A Staff Reporter

Bhubaneswar, Odisha: In a shocking incident, a 15-year-old girl was allegedly abducted and set on fire by unidentified miscreants in the Balanga area of Puri district on Sunday morning. The victim is currently undergoing treatment at AIIMS Bhubaneswar and remains in critical condition with 70% burn injuries, according to hospital authorities.

According to the girl’s cousin, the incident occurred around 8:30 a.m. while she was on her way to visit a friend. “She was abducted midway, taken to a riverside, and set on fire,” he said. “Somehow, she managed to escape and reached a nearby house. The residents there clothed her and informed us. I rushed to the spot and took her to the hospital, from where she was referred to AIIMS Bhubaneswar.”

The family has lodged a police complaint, and an investigation has been initiated. As of now, the identity of the accused remains unknown. The victim, who reportedly saw the attackers, is said to be in no condition to speak in detail, but may be able to assist once her condition stabilizes.

“We demand the death penalty for the culprits,” the cousin added. “The doctors told us she is critical but urged us to stay hopeful.”