Puri, July 19 — In a deeply disturbing incident that has sparked outrage across Odisha, a 15-year-old girl was allegedly abducted and set ablaze by three unidentified men in Puri district on Saturday morning, police officials confirmed.
According to initial reports, the minor was on her way to a friend’s residence around 9:00 AM when she was intercepted by three motorcycle-borne assailants near Bayabar village under Balanga police station limits. The perpetrators allegedly dragged her to the secluded banks of the Bhargavi River, doused her with an inflammable substance, and set her on fire before fleeing the scene.
The incident occurred approximately 1.5 kilometres from the girl’s home in Nuagopalpur Bustee and around 5–7 kilometres from the Balanga police station. Hearing her screams, local residents rushed to the spot, extinguished the flames, and transported her to the government hospital in Pipili. She was later shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar due to the severity of her injuries.
Doctors at AIIMS have confirmed that the victim sustained 70 percent burn injuries but remains conscious and able to speak. Medical staff describe her condition as critical but stable.
Puri Superintendent of Police Pinak Mishra stated that a detailed investigation is underway. “We are questioning several individuals, and efforts are being intensified to identify and apprehend the culprits,” Mishra told reporters. He added that no arrests have been made yet.
Pipili Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Debasish Mishra said that two special teams have been constituted to trace the accused. “We are analysing CCTV footage from nearby homes and other possible sources to gather leads,” he said, confirming that the victim sustained burns to her back, abdomen, and other parts of her body.
The gruesome attack has prompted swift condemnation from senior state officials. Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida expressed deep shock over the incident, assuring that the government will bear all medical expenses. In a post on social media platform X, Parida wrote, “I am saddened and shocked to hear the news that some miscreants at Balanga in Puri district poured petrol on a fifteen-year-old girl and set her on fire. All arrangements are being made for her treatment. The police have been directed to arrest the culprits immediately and ensure strict legal action.”
The incident has raised serious concerns over the safety of women and girls in the region, triggering demands for swift justice and stronger security measures. Authorities have urged the public to come forward with any information that may aid the investigation.
