TNI Bureau: Four students were seriously injured, one of them critically, after being set on fire during school hours at an upgraded high school in Paikdakulguda under Bisamkatak block of Rayagada district.

According to sources, the incident occurred around 3 pm when a group of students had gone outside the classroom to urinate. During that time, another student allegedly poured thinner on four students and set them on fire using a matchstick. As a result, the victims suffered severe burn injuries.

Teachers at the school rushed to the spot, rescued the injured students and immediately shifted them to the Bisamkatak Community Health Centre for treatment. After receiving first aid, all four were referred to a local Christian hospital for advanced treatment.

Among the injured, Class VII student Biraj Takri is reported to be in critical condition. The other injured students have been identified as Nalina Huika and Rohit Khara, both Class VII students, and Sudam Bagh, a Class V student.

The incident, which took place during school hours, has raised serious concerns over the safety and security of students within school premises. When asked about the circumstances leading to the incident, the headmaster said he was on the school campus and rushed to the hospital after receiving the information. He added that he would inquire with the teachers present at the time to ascertain how such a serious incident occurred.