• Source:Vikash Sharma
Add as a preferred

Odisha School Tragedy: Over a hundred students fell ill after consuming toxic food at the Kakabandh Ashram School in the Rasgobindpur area of Mayurbhanj district, Odisha, while a fifth-grade student died during treatment. The incident has sparked tension in the area.

The deceased student was identified as 12-year-old Rupali Beshra, who succumbed to her injuries while undergoing treatment at the Baripada District General Hospital. Following the incident, the administration took immediate action and suspended the school headmaster and launched an investigation.

According to reports, approximately 146 students fell ill with vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, and stomach pain after consuming food in the school hostel two days ago. All were initially admitted to the Rasgobindpur CHC, from where over 60 children in critical condition were referred to Baripada Medical College Hospital.

ALSO READ: Odisha Panchayat Election 2027: Seat Reservation Process Begins; Check Key Dates For Final Lists

Several Injured In Police Lathi-Charge

As news of the student's death spread, parents and local residents gathered outside the school and blocked the roads near the Rasgobindpur market, expressing their anger. Clashes broke out between protesters and police, leading to stone-pelting and vandalism. Police resorted to a lathi-charge to bring the situation under control, injuring several people and policemen.

BJD Announces Bandh On Saturday

Meanwhile, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has announced a 12-hour bandh in Mayurbhanj district on Saturday, April 18, to protest the student's death. The party has demanded strict action against the culprits and adequate compensation for the victim's family.

ALSO READ: Odisha: 58 Cops Injured After Tribals Clash Over Construction Of Road To Bauxite Mine

Regarding the gravity of the incident, several senior officials, including the District Collector and Superintendent of Police, arrived at the scene and are working to control the situation.

CM Majhi Steps In

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed his deep condolences on the social media platform 'X' and announced a compensation of Rs 3 lakh to the families of the deceased.

Currently, more than 60 students are undergoing treatment at the Baripada District Main Hospital and others at Rasgobindpur Hospital. According to doctors, most of the children are now stable and improving. The administration has ordered a high-level investigation into the incident, and all aspects of the food quality and negligence are being examined to prevent recurrence of such incidents in the future.
(With Jagran.com inputs)


Also In News