Korukonda ,Dec, 29: A serious clash and physical altercation allegedly took place among students at PM SHRI Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya–2, located in Balimela town of Malkangiri district. According to information received, the incident involved students of Class IX and Class XI.
As students stay in hostels far away from their homes, parents usually give them some dry food to keep with them. About three days ago, a Class IX student reportedly consumed some food belonging to another Class IX student, which led to a verbal dispute between the two.
After the matter came to the notice of a Class XI student captain and the caretaker, some Class IX students were allegedly called to the Class XI hostel for questioning. It is alleged that they were physically assaulted during this process. The caretaker, Biswajit Sarkar, is also accused of repeatedly forcing the students to drink water and continuing the assault. As a result, some students reportedly lost control and became extremely distressed. This incident has created an atmosphere of fear among the Class IX students.
Parents have alleged that while student captains are appointed to maintain discipline and order in the hostel, their involvement in such actions is unacceptable.
When contacted, Ramu Racha, the Principal of the Navodaya Vidyalaya, stated that the matter was discussed with both sets of parents and a mutual understanding was reached. He informed that seven Class XI students have been suspended for one week, and caretaker Biswajit Sarkar has been dismissed from service.
However, some parents remain fearful and dissatisfied, stating that no proper resolution has yet been achieved between the school authorities and parents. Due to concerns over the possible recurrence of such incidents, five parents have reportedly taken their children back home.
Some parents questioned why such a serious incident between Class IX and Class XI students occurred in the first place. In response, the Principal admitted that the matter came to his notice nearly four days after the incident.
Parents have expressed concern that if the issue is not resolved immediately, the academic progress of both Class IX and Class XI students will be adversely affected, and the school’s educational environment and reputation may suffer.