Odisha horror: Balasore college principal arrested after student attempts self-immolation; 'tormentor' HoD was held earlier over sexual harassment claims

NEW DELHI: The suspended Principal of Balasore College was arrested after a girl attempted self-immolation at the institution. Earlier, the girl’s tormentor, the HOD, was arrested.

The 20-year-old girl set herself ablaze near the main gate of the college during a peaceful protest that was going on since July 1, demanding action against the head of the education department (HoD). Students and friends of the girl claimed she had previously filed complaints accusing the HoD of mental harassment, misbehaviour and threats to manipulate her academic performance by lowering her internal marks unless she gave in to his sexual demands.

The Odisha Higher Education Department established a committee to investigate harassment allegations against Samira Kumar Sahu, an assistant professor at a college, following a student's self-immolation attempt.

The Higher Education Department subsequently suspended both the Assistant Professor and the Principal following the incident.