Class 7 student dies after 48-day battle with burn injuries; family protests in Rayagada

Tension gripped Rayagada district after a Class VII student, who had sustained severe burn injuries in a fire incident at his school, died on Tuesday following a 48-day battle for life. The deceased has been identified as Biren Takri, a student of Paikadakuluguda Upgraded High School.

Family members and villagers staged a protest by placing his body in front of the school premises, alleging medical negligence in his treatment and demanding adequate compensation. The agitating locals also sought accountability from the school authorities and the district administration over the incident.

The tragic episode dates back to January 5, when a student allegedly poured thinner on four fellow students on the upper floor of the school building and set them on fire. All four sustained burn injuries, with Biren reported to be the most critically injured.

He was initially rushed to a local hospital and later shifted to SCB Medical College and Hospital for advanced treatment. Despite prolonged medical care, he succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday afternoon.

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Following his death, anger spread across the area, with villagers questioning both the circumstances that led to the incident and the adequacy of medical treatment provided. Police from Muniguda reached the spot and are attempting to pacify the grieving family and protesters. No official statement has yet been issued by the medical authorities regarding the allegations of negligence.