Bhubaneswar (Odisha) [India], July 26 : Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida on Saturday said that the 15-year-old girl who was allegedly abducted and set on fire by unidentified assailants in Puri district is "gradually recovering" after undergoing two surgeries. She said that the minor is currently receiving skin grafting treatment with assistance from a skin bank.
Speaking to ANI, Parida assured that the state government is closely monitoring the victim's medical care and has reviewed the compensation offered.
"She has undergone two surgeries. She is undergoing skin grafting from the skin bank... She is gradually recovering... The compensation given by the government has also been reviewed... It will take 40-50 days for her to recover...," the Dy CM said.
Commenting on criticism from the Opposition over the government's handling of the case, the Deputy CM hit back, saying that the current administration takes swift action on such complaints.
"Our government immediately resolves the complaint registered with us... This had never happened before because the previous governments stayed ignorant of crimes against women... Had the previous government stayed vigilant in establishing an internal committee under POCSO, such situations would never have occurred. They are being set up now... Our CM has announced zero tolerance to crime against women...," she added.
The incident occurred under the jurisdiction of the Balanda police station in the Nimapada block of Puri on July 19. Victim, a 15-year-old girl who had gone out with friends, was abducted and taken to the riverside, where she was set on fire by unidentified miscreants. Despite suffering severe burns, the girl managed to reach a nearby house and was rushed to a hospital.
Later, she was airlifted to AIIMS, New Delhi, on Sunday (July 20, 2025) for advanced medical treatment. According to officials, the victim sustained 75 per cent burns and has undergone surgery for deep burn management at AIIMS.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday said that an investigation is underway to determine the cause of this incident. "Whoever is responsible will be caught. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of this incident and to determine whether any conspiracy was involved. The government will ensure strict punishment under the law," the Chief Minister stated.