Nayagarh: A Government Primary School in Odisha’s Nayagarh district has remained locked for the past 13 days following the death of a student under mysterious circumstances as family members of the deceased continue their protest demanding justice.
The protest stems from the tragic death of 10-year-old Bholanath Mallick, a Class V student of Belpada Government Primary School. Locals locked the school, demanding accountability and justice for the child’s death alleging the teachers and staff are unfit to protect the other students. The protest has continued for nearly 2 weeks, disrupting classes.
On February 3, Bholanath went missing after telling his headmistress that he was going outside the school to relive himself following the mid-day meal. When he did not return, his school bag was sent home with other students, sparking panic among his family. Villagers launched a search and his decapitated body was discovered in an abandoned well near Mangala temple in Belapadapatana village on February 4. The discovery triggered widespread outrage.
His family alleged the minor student was not allowed to use the toilet in the school premises due to discrimination over his lower caste. They have demanded Rs 50 lakh compensation and the arrest of the teachers and staff responsible for the tragedy. Family members are also questioning the role of police.
Two teachers, including the headmistress, have been placed under suspension pending investigation. Block Education Officer (BEO) Lipsa Nanda said disciplinary action was taken after a field inquiry and assured appropriate action will be taken.
Police said they have intensified their probe into the circumstances surrounding the boy’s death, urging villagers and parents to be patient till the probe reaches its conclusion.
