Class 8 Tribal Student Brutally Assaulted in Panchada Sebashram Hostel, Koraput

Koraput | sept 25 - Concerns over student safety in government-run residential schools have resurfaced after a shocking incident in Panchada Sebashram under Laxmipur block of Koraput district. A Class 8 tribal student, Abhilash Saunta of Lachamani village, was allegedly tied up and brutally beaten by four fellow students inside the hostel premises yesterday.

The boy’s hands and feet were bound before he was mercilessly thrashed on his face and back. Severely injured, he somehow managed to escape from the hostel. Fearing for his life, he was later found sitting by the roadside by an auto driver, who rushed him to Kakirigumma Health Centre. Owing to the seriousness of his injuries, he was shifted to Laxmipur Community Health Centre for treatment.

The student’s family alleged that when they informed headmaster Sunil Kumar Burudi about the assault, he dismissed the matter without concern. The family then shifted the boy in a 108 ambulance and lodged a police complaint. The victim also claimed that his attackers had threatened to kill him if he revealed the incident.

“Preliminary inquiry suggests there were some earlier disputes among the students, which escalated into an argument and led to the incident. We have called their parents for further inquiry and are investigating the matter. The child is currently safe after receiving treatment,” said SDPO Manoj Behera.

This is not the first such case at Panchada Sebashram, which houses over 400 students. Locals allege repeated incidents of ragging and violence over the past year, accusing authorities of failing to act. Residents and activists have now demanded a thorough probe and strict action against the school authorities for negligence.