A high-level committee from the Higher Education Department will investigate the death of Soumyashree, a 20-year-old student of Fakir Mohan Autonomous College in Balasore, Odisha. The student had attempted self-immolation on July 12, allegedly due to harassment by a college faculty member, and later succumbed to her injuries.
Investigation Details:
- Committee's Role: The committee will conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, with members of the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) required to appear in person.
- Crime Branch Investigation: A crime branch team has been investigating the incident, questioning ICC members and college staff, and checking the petrol pump near the college for possible tampering.
- Suspension and Arrest: The professor accused of harassment and the college principal have been suspended and arrested.
Government Response:
- Chief Minister's Directive: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has ordered a criminal investigation into the incident, ensuring strict action against those responsible.
- UGC's Fact-Finding Panel: The University Grants Commission has formed a four-member fact-finding committee to probe the incident and suggest measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
Background:
The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with opposition parties demanding justice for the deceased student and enhanced safety measures for women. The state government has announced a ₹20 lakh ex-gratia to the family of the deceased girl.