Student Dies of Snakebite; Headmistress Suspended)

Mayurbhanj, July 12: Baripada GD GIRI A tragic incident has been reported from Mayurbhanj district, where a 12-year-old student died after being bitten by a venomous snake while playing on the school premises. The student was first taken to the local hospital, then shifted to Baripada District Headquarters Hospital, and later referred to SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack. Despite the doctors' best efforts, his life could not be saved. The deceased has been identified as Sapan Soren, the 12-year-old son of Rabindra Soren and Dolan Soren of Jagannathpur village under Kuliana police station. He was a Class V student of Gaddeulia Primary School. According to reports, during the lunch break, Sapan and his classmates were playing football on the school playground. The ball accidentally rolled into a bush. When Sapan went to retrieve it, a venomous snake hiding in the bushes bit him. Immediately after the snakebite, his classmates and teachers rushed him to Baisinga Medical Centre. After receiving first aid, he was referred to Baripada District Headquarters Hospital as his condition became critical. As his health further deteriorated, he was shifted to SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack. However, despite all medical efforts, Sapan succumbed to the snakebite. On Sunday, Sapan's body was brought to his native village,

Jagannathpur. The grief-stricken cries of his family members plunged the entire village into mourning. A deep sense of sorrow also prevailed in the school. Following the incident, serious questions have been raised regarding the safety of the school premises, including the lack of proper cleaning of bushes and overgrown vegetation and the failure to control venomous reptiles. Local residents have demanded that the school campus be made safe immediately and that regular cleaning and maintenance be ensured to protect students. The administration has reportedly suspended the Headmistress in connection with the incident. However, educationists and intellectuals have also expressed concern over the alleged negligence of the District Education Officer. They stated that regular inspections of school conditions, monthly review meetings with Headmasters/Headmistresses and Block Education Officers (BEOs), and proper monitoring of students' welfare, including mid-day meals and overall school management, should have been conducted. According to them, administrative negligence and lack of proper supervision are among the major reasons behind such unfortunate incidents. They have demanded strict action against all officials found responsible. An investigation into all aspects of the incident is currently underway.

Reported by: Gour Das Giri, Baripada