In a yet another tragic incident that has shaken Odisha, a minor girl from Puri district who sustained 70% burn injuries after being set ablaze by unidentified attackers has been airlifted to AIIMS Delhi for advanced medical care.
The brutal attack took place on July 19 in the Balanga area of Puri, where three unidentified assailants allegedly poured petrol and kerosene on the girl and set her on fire near a river embankment. Despite the horrifying nature of the attack, the girl managed to flee and took shelter in a nearby house, where local villagers quickly rushed her to the Pipili Community Health Centre. She was later referred to AIIMS Bhubaneswar due to the severity of her injuries.
Officials confirmed on Sunday that her condition, while still critical, had stabilized sufficiently to allow for the air transfer. &ldquo;The girl's condition is now stable enough for transfer. A special flight has been arranged, and AIIMS Delhi has been informed,&rdquo; said Dr. Asutosh Biswas, Executive Director of AIIMS Bhubaneswar.
The Odisha Police have launched a full scale investigation into the incident. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by Balanga IIC Dibya Ranjan Panda is leading the probe, supported by forensicvunits that have combed the crime scene. The case has been registered under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including those addressing attempted murder and criminal conspiracy.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage across the state, with renewed calls for urgent reforms in women&rsquo;s safety and swift justice for survivors of gender based violence. This attack comes close on the heels of another tragic incident the death of a 20 year old B.Ed student from Balasore, who succumbed to burns after allegedly setting herself ablaze in protest against police inaction on a sexual harassment complaint. It's time we realize how such gruesome incidents are happening frequently yet the implementation has so far been inadequate.&nbsp;
Authorities have vowed stringent action and have assured the public that justice will be delivered in both cases.

Odisha Burn Victim Airlifted to AIIMS Delhi

Minor girl attacked in Puri district; stable enough to receive advanced care in Delhi

Odisha Burn Victim Airlifted to AIIMS Delhi

Minor girl attacked in Puri district; stable enough to receive advanced care in Delhi

July 20, 2025 | 19:08 IST