3 men set 15-year-old girl on fire in Puri, family rules out enmity; political blame game on

Puri, Odisha | July 19, 2025 — In a deeply disturbing incident that has sent shockwaves across Odisha and the country, a 15-year-old girl was allegedly set on fire by three men in the Balanga area of Puri district. The victim, who sustained critical burn injuries, is currently undergoing treatment at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack. As the investigation unfolds, political parties have started exchanging accusations, fueling a fresh bout of blame game over rising crime rates and governance failure.

Horrific Crime in a Peaceful Hamlet

The incident occurred late Wednesday night when the girl was reportedly lured out of her house by an acquaintance and then attacked by three men, who poured kerosene over her and set her ablaze. The local police confirmed that all three accused—identified as youths from nearby villages—have been detained and are being interrogated.

Superintendent of Police Pinak Mishra stated, “The girl was able to give a statement before being shifted to Cuttack. A case under IPC Section 307 (attempt to murder) and relevant sections of the POCSO Act has been registered. The motive is under investigation.”

Family Rules Out Personal Enmity

What has baffled both investigators and the public is the family’s assertion that they had no known dispute or enmity with the accused.

“We don’t know why they did this. We never had any quarrel or issue with anyone. My daughter is innocent and doesn’t even go out much,” said the victim’s father, barely holding back tears.

This has raised concerns that the motive might stem from other factors—possibly gender-based violence, coercion, or intimidation—which police are probing further.

Political Reactions: A New Flashpoint

The brutality of the crime has sparked a political storm in Odisha, with opposition parties blaming the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government for deteriorating law and order. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state president Manmohan Samal accused the government of “failing to protect daughters of the state,” and demanded Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik’s resignation.

“This isn’t just an isolated incident. Odisha is becoming increasingly unsafe for women. The government must answer,” said Samal during a press conference in Bhubaneswar.

Responding sharply, senior BJD leader and Minister for Women and Child Development, Tukuni Sahu, condemned the incident but urged opposition parties not to politicize the tragedy. “We are ensuring the best medical care and swift justice. The CM has instructed a fast-track investigation,” she said.

Analyst View: A Reflection of Larger Issues

Sociologist Dr. Ranjita Patnaik termed the incident “a tragic manifestation of deep-rooted gender inequality and law enforcement gaps.” She emphasized that while such incidents attract media glare, the systemic failure in policing, delayed trials, and lack of deterrence are the bigger culprits.

“Violence against girls and women isn't merely a law-and-order issue. It reflects a societal failure. Unless we strengthen community-level vigilance and gender education, such cases will continue,” she said.

Investor and Market Context

While the incident is a social issue, it could have an indirect impact on investor confidence in Odisha, a state positioning itself as a manufacturing and tourism hub. A senior analyst from Emkay Global, under condition of anonymity, said, “Perceptions of lawlessness—especially if they persist or increase in media visibility—can negatively affect investment sentiment in the region.”

The Odisha government, in recent years, has aggressively pursued private investment through industrial corridors and ease-of-doing-business policies. But social unrest, even localized, can erode trust among potential investors.

Government Measures and Next Steps

In the wake of the incident, Odisha’s DGP has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to expedite the probe. Meanwhile, the Child Welfare Committee has sought a full report and suggested providing trauma counseling for the victim and her family.

The CM’s office announced an ex gratia relief of ₹5 lakh for the family and promised legal aid. A senior official in the home department said, “We will ensure the case is tried in a fast-track court and monitored at the highest level.”

Public Outrage and Demand for Justice

The incident has triggered public demonstrations across Puri and Bhubaneswar. Civil society organizations, student unions, and women’s groups held candle marches, demanding justice and harsher punishment for crimes against minors.

Swati Mohanty of Odisha Mahila Sangathan said, “We want the perpetrators to be charged with attempted rape and murder. Mere arrests aren’t enough—speedy conviction is crucial.”

As the 15-year-old battles for life, the state faces another test of its criminal justice apparatus and social conscience. The political fallout, while inevitable, should not overshadow the core issue—ensuring safety for girls and swift, uncompromising justice for the guilty. Until then, the cries for accountability will only grow louder.