NHRC Issues Notice Over Minor’s Death, Mass Illness at Mayurbhanj Residential School

Bhubaneswar: Serious concerns over student safety at a residential school in Odisha have prompted the National Human Rights Commission to seek an urgent report from state authorities following the death of a minor girl and illness of over 100 students in Mayurbhanj district.

Acting on its own, the Commission took suo motu cognisance of reports related to the April 14 incident at Kakabandh Ashram School, where students allegedly fell ill after consuming stale food served at the hostel.

In its communication, the NHRC stated that the incident, if confirmed, reflects a grave violation of human rights and has asked the Odisha Chief Secretary and district police to submit a detailed report within two weeks. The report is expected to include the progress of the investigation and updates on the health condition of the affected children.

Health officials informed that 67 students in critical condition were admitted to Baripada Medical College and Hospital, while another 41 are receiving treatment at a nearby community health centre.

The deceased student, identified as 12-year-old Rupali Besra, is suspected to have died due to food poisoning after consuming pakhala, saga bhaja, and aloo bharta.

In response, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has ordered a probe by the Revenue Divisional Commissioner (Central Division) and announced financial assistance of ₹3 lakh for the victim’s family.

The district administration has also taken action against the school authorities, placing headmaster Jayanta Kumar Panigrahi under suspension pending the outcome of the inquiry.