Baripada, Mayurbhanj: A shocking and highly sensitive incident has reportedly occurred at the hostel of SVM International School, a private school in Baripada town. The parents of a Class VII girl student have alleged that an attempt was made to kill their daughter by mixing poisonous mosquito-repellent liquid, reportedly All-Out, into her drinking water bottle.
The student, identified as Sanskriti Dandapat, reportedly fell seriously ill after unknowingly drinking the contaminated water. She was initially taken to Baripada Medical and later shifted to KIMS Hospital in Bhubaneswar, where she was admitted to the ICU. She has reportedly improved and returned home.
According to the parents, someone had mixed the poisonous liquid into the water bottle kept in the hostel room. After drinking the water, Sanskriti noticed an unusual taste and smell and raised an alarm. Her condition deteriorated rapidly.
The hostel warden and school authorities reportedly informed the parents, following which the family arranged for her treatment. Doctors advised close observation for 24 to 72 hours. Due to the seriousness of her condition, she was shifted to Bhubaneswar for advanced treatment.
The girl’s parents have lodged an FIR at Baripada Police Station, alleging that this was not an accidental incident but a deliberate attempt to murder. They have raised serious questions over the safety and security of girl students residing in the hostel.
The girl’s mother also alleged that the school authorities did not provide adequate cooperation during her daughter’s treatment. She claimed that one person associated with the school spoke to the family in a harsh and allegedly threatening manner.
The incident has sparked concern among parents, educationists and members of the public. Questions are being raised regarding the monitoring of private schools, compliance with child-safety regulations and the role of education officials and the district administration.
The parents are demanding justice and strict action against those responsible. Questions have also been raised over the implementation of child-protection laws and the responsibilities of the police and education authorities.
School Principal Mrs. Anjali Pandit has reportedly taken the matter seriously and stated that an investigation is underway. She said that the guilty person would be punished and expressed her wishes for Sanskriti’s speedy recovery.
