Tragic School Building Collapse in Rajasthan

In a devastating incident in Jhalawar, Rajasthan, a government school building partially collapsed, resulting in the tragic deaths of seven children and injuries to 27 others. The collapse occurred just minutes before the morning assembly, leaving the community in shock and mourning. The victims were identified as Payal (12), Priyanka (12), Kundan (12), Harish (8), Kartik, and siblings Meena (12) and Kanha (6).

Ignored Warnings from Students

According to eyewitness accounts from students, warnings about the deteriorating condition of the school roof were ignored by a teacher. One student recounted how gravel began falling from the ceiling, prompting them to alert the teacher. However, their concerns were dismissed with the teacher insisting that nothing was amiss. Tragically, the roof collapsed shortly after, trapping several students inside. Another student mentioned that the teacher was preoccupied with eating ‘poha’, a popular breakfast dish, at the time of the incident.

Administrative Response and Accountability

Following the collapse, Jhalawar collector Ajay Singh stated that the district administration had previously instructed the education department to report any dilapidated school buildings. However, this particular building was not listed as a concern. In response to the tragedy, five staff members from the school have been suspended pending further investigation.

Government and National Leaders React

Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma convened a high-level meeting to address the incident and emphasized that no school building should remain in a state of disrepair. A moment of silence was observed for the victims during this meeting. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed their condolences, describing the event as “tragic” and “deeply saddening.” Both leaders extended their thoughts and prayers to the affected families and called for swift recovery for those injured.