Woman Attempts Self-Immolation After Filing Rape Complaint in Ganjam
A 20-year-old woman in Berhampur, Ganjam district, allegedly attempted self-immolation on Saturday, just one day after she lodged a formal rape complaint at a local police station. The incident occurred behind her house, where she poured kerosene on herself and set herself on fire, according to police reports.
Critical Condition After Severe Burns
The woman sustained approximately 50% burn injuries in the attempt. Her parents immediately rushed her to the local subdivisional hospital for initial treatment. Due to the severity of her condition, she was later shifted to a larger, better-equipped medical facility for advanced care. Medical authorities have stated that her condition remains critical as of the latest updates.
Police Investigation Underway
Damodar Bihari, the inspector in charge of the local police station, confirmed that the exact reason behind the suicide attempt is not yet known. However, he noted that the woman had filed a rape complaint on Friday against a man with whom she had been in a relationship since 2022. Her statement was scheduled to be officially recorded by police on Saturday, the same day as the self-immolation incident.
"We are also investigating whether the rape accused had any role in her self-immolation attempt," an officer involved in the case stated, emphasizing that this angle is being actively explored as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Background of the Case
The case highlights a distressing sequence of events:
- The woman reported the rape at the Ganjam police station on Friday.
- She attempted self-immolation on Saturday, resulting in critical injuries.
- Police are examining potential links between the accused and the suicide attempt.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in the investigation, while also emphasizing the importance of mental health support for victims of such traumatic incidents.
