odisha news: Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), Feb 20: A postgraduate student of Sambalpur University was found with head injuries along the Sambalpur University-Atal Chhak Road on Wednesday, triggering concerns over student safety in the region.
The injured student, identified as Sonali Naik, a Library Science postgraduate from Sambalpur University and a resident of Burla, was rescued by the police after locals spotted her in a distressed state around 4 PM. She was immediately admitted to VIMSAR, Burla, for medical treatment.
Subdivisional Police Officer (SDPO) of Burla, Baleswar Giddhi, stated that police responded promptly to the information and ensured her immediate medical care. While no evidence of sexual assault was found in the preliminary medical examination, Sonali has not been able to explain how she sustained the injuries.
University sources revealed that Sonali had been absent from classes for the past week, raising further questions. Acting on a complaint filed by her father, police have launched an investigation, examining CCTV footage for leads. Initially, suspicion fell on some catering staff who arrived at the spot in two autorickshaws, but further inquiry ruled out their involvement.
Meanwhile, Sonali’s condition has been reported as stable, but her parents have decided to shift her to a private hospital in Bhubaneswar for further treatment. The investigation continues.
