Koraput: Concerns over student safety in government-run residential schools have resurfaced after a Class VIII tribal student was allegedly tied up and brutally assaulted by four fellow inmates at Panchada Sebashram hostel under Laxmipur block in Koraput district.
The victim, identified as Abhilash Saunta of Lachamani village, was reportedly bound at the hands and feet before being beaten brutally on the face and back inside the hostel premises.
According to reports, the severely injured student managed to escape and was later found sitting by the roadside. An auto-rickshaw driver spotted him and took him to the Kakirigumma Health Centre. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was referred to the Laxmipur Community Health Centre for further treatment.
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Saunta’s family alleged that when they informed the school’s headmaster, Sunil Kumar Burudi, he showed no concern and dismissed the complaint. The family later shifted the boy in a government ambulance and filed a police complaint.
The victim also alleged that the accused students threatened to kill him if he spoke about the assault.
“Preliminary inquiry suggests there were earlier disputes among the students, which escalated into an argument and led to the incident,” said Sub-Divisional Police Officer Manoj Behera. “We have called their parents for further inquiry and are investigating the matter. The child is currently safe and receiving treatment.”
This is not the first such incident at Panchada Sebashram, which houses more than 400 students. Locals have reported repeated cases of ragging and violence over the past year and have accused school authorities of negligence.
Community members and child rights activists have demanded a thorough investigation and strict action against those responsible.
PNN