Navodaya Vidyalaya deaths: Probe launched after three Class 10 students drown in Odisha

A special investigation was launched on Sunday after three students of PM Shri Navodaya Vidyalaya in Koraput district allegedly drowned in Kolab reservoir yesterday.

Also Read: 5 minors, including 3 from PM Shri Navodaya Vidyalaya drown to death in separate incidents in Odisha

Acting on the instructions of the District Collector, a special team reached the school to probe the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident. The team included the District Education Officer (DEO), District Welfare Officer (DWO), Tehsildar, and the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO), who jointly inspected the school hostel and the nearby riverbank area.

Officials also examined relevant records as part of the investigation.

According to sources, the incident occurred after the students returned from school following the completion of their matriculation Board Examinations. The three students allegedly went to the water reservoir and drowned.

The investigation team is also expected to review administrative procedures and safety measures at the institution. Officials from other Navodaya schools, including principals from Malkangiri and Angul districts, along with an Additional Commissioner from the Navodaya administration, are part of the inquiry.

A tense and grief-stricken atmosphere prevailed near the post-mortem facility where the bodies were taken. Parents have blamed the school authorities for negligence, while the school administration has suggested that parents also share responsibility.

Clothes and shoes believed to belong to the deceased students were still found near the riverbank as officials continued their investigation into the disturbing incident.

No comments were received from the students’ families or local police in this regard.

Worth mentioning, local authorities and residents were alerted soon after the fatal incident, and efforts were made to recover the bodies from the water. The tragedy sent shockwaves through the local community and the school fraternity, with many expressing grief over the untimely loss of the young and male students.