Class 9 girl student consumes poison on Valentine’s Day in Odisha’s Athagarh, hospitalised

A Class 9 girl student allegedly consumed a poisonous substance inside her school under Athagarh police limits on February 14, prompting concerns over institutional accountability after the incident reportedly went unreported to higher authorities for several days.

According to sources, the student was initially taken to Athagarh Sub-Divisional Hospital after her condition worsened. She was later shifted to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack for advanced treatment. Officials said she has since returned home after medical care.

During a subsequent inspection of her school bag, authorities reportedly recovered a packet containing urea fertiliser and an identity card belonging to a boy. The circumstances leading to the incident remain unclear, and no official confirmation has been made regarding the motive.

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The delay in reporting the matter to senior education officials has drawn criticism. Athagarh Block Education Officer (BEO) Kabiraj Jena said he was informed about the case by the school Principal only later. He stated that a hostel inspection was conducted on February 14, during which the items were found by the hostel warden.

The BEO termed it unfortunate that the matter was not communicated promptly to his office and the District Education Officer (DEO). Authorities indicated that further inquiry would ascertain whether any lapses occurred in handling the situation.

The incident has raised questions regarding supervision, communication protocols and student welfare within the institution.