A young undergraduate woman in Odisha's Sundergarh district suffered 90% burns after attempting self-immolation due to harassment by a 25-year-old man. The man has been arrested by police. This marks the fifth such incident in the state over the past six months, highlighting rising concerns over women's safety.
In a distressing incident in Odisha's Sundergarh district, an undergraduate college student attempted self-immolation on December 7, 2025, following alleged harassment by a 25-year-old man. The woman sustained severe injuries, with reports indicating 90% burns across her body. Local police swiftly arrested the accused, who is now in custody as investigations continue.
The event underscores a troubling pattern of harassment leading to self-harm among young women in the region. This is the fifth reported case in Odisha within the last six months, prompting alarms about the prevalence of sexual harassment and its impact on mental health. Authorities have not released further details on the nature of the harassment or the victim's current condition, but the incident has intensified calls for stronger protective measures for female students.
Sundergarh district, located in western Odisha, has seen increasing reports of such vulnerabilities among college-going women. While specific background on the victim remains limited, the case draws attention to broader issues of safety and support systems in educational environments. Police statements emphasize ongoing efforts to address these concerns, though no additional arrests or related developments were mentioned.