Bhubaneswar, June 30: A Class 9 schoolgirl narrowly escaped a serious attack after a man allegedly poured petrol on her in an attempt to set her ablaze in the Lanjara Chowk area under Fatepur Panchayat in Bhadrak district on Tuesday morning.

According to a complaint filed by the victim's family, the accused, a 32-year-old resident of Dharmagatpur village under Fatepur Panchayat, had allegedly been harassing and pursuing the minor girl for a considerable period. The family alleged that after the student repeatedly rejected his advances, the accused intercepted her while she was on her way to school and allegedly poured petrol on her with the intention of setting her on fire.

The girl cried out for help, prompting nearby residents to rush to the spot. Their timely intervention prevented the accused from carrying out the attack. The locals overpowered him and immediately handed him over to Dhusuri police.

Based on the family's complaint, police have registered a case and launched an investigation into the incident. The victim is reported to be safe, though she remains traumatised by the attack.

Local residents claimed that the accused had been married twice in the past. Police are verifying all aspects of the case, including the motive behind the attack and the allegations of prolonged harassment. Further investigation is underway, and legal action will be taken based on the findings.

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