Abuse at Odisha residential school: Authorities begin investigation, reach out to students

Authorities have launched a thorough investigation into the allegations of abuse at Talagadia Ashram Residential School in the Korei block of Jajpur district. The inquiry involves questioning the school's administration to uncover the full extent of the reported incidents.

This school is managed by the ST & SC Development Department. Allegations surfaced after three young students, reportedly fleeing from maltreatment at the hands of senior pupils, escaped by climbing over the boundary wall. Locals soon intercepted the escapees and enquired about their reasons for running away.

Upon learning of the situation, the residents alerted the Korei Police. Officers swiftly arrived and took the children to the police station for more detailed questioning. During their statement, the students revealed their desperate bid for freedom stemmed from enduring regular beatings and forced labour assigned by senior students.

Following these revelations, police called in school officials and the students' guardians for additional questioning. The investigation has led to the children being referred to the district's child welfare committee. Subsequently, they were placed in a children's home for their safety.

Speaking to OTV, the District Welfare Officer, Sarat Chandra Behera, informed, “I’m here for verification in the presence of the guardians. I have directed the school authorities and guardians to provide counseling to the children so that such incidents do not get repeated in the future.”