NCW takes note of Odisha student’s immolation bid

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo motu cognisance of an incident in Odisha’s Balasore district, where a 20-year-old woman student allegedly attempted to set herself ablaze after facing sexual harassment and academic threats from the head of department at her government college.

The student is in critical condition, with 90 per cent burn injuries. Describing the incident as “deeply disturbing,” NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar on Sunday directed the Director General of Police (DGP), Odisha, to conduct a fair and time-bound investigation.

The Commission also urged the state police to take strict action against the accused and ensure the victim receives all necessary medical and psychological care, free of charge.

In its official statement, the NCW said the student was allegedly subjected to persistent harassment and intimidation before the self-immolation attempt. It has sought an Action Taken Report (ATR) within three days and stressed the importance of institutional accountability.