Crime Branch questions eyewitness in FM College student death case

Bhubaneswar, July 18: The Crime Branch has intensified its probe into the tragic death of Soumyashree Bisi, a student of FM College in Balasore, by questioning the key eyewitness Jyotiprakash Biswal, who is currently undergoing treatment at SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack. Jyotiprakash had suffered serious injuries while trying to save Soumyashree during her self-immolation attempt.

A two-member team from the Crime Branch met Jyotiprakash in the Plastic Surgery Department and recorded his statement over the course of an hour. The investigators aimed to understand the sequence of events leading up to the incident, which has shocked the state.

Jyotiprakash sustained severe burn injuries to his face, hands, and lungs while attempting to rescue Soumyashree. Officials also consulted doctors treating him to assess his medical condition and ability to assist further in the investigation.

His testimony is being seen as crucial to reconstructing the timeline and determining the circumstances that led to the tragic act. While his bravery has been widely praised, the lack of timely government support has drawn strong criticism. His father, Sanatan Biswal, has appealed for urgent financial and medical assistance from the state government.