Headmaster's Severe Beating Hospitalizes Two Students Over Food Quality Protest
In a shocking incident from Visakhapatnam, two students of Darakonda Ashram High School in Alluri Sitarama Raju (ASR) district were rushed to the hospital after allegedly being brutally beaten by their headmaster. The assault occurred when the boys complained about the substandard quality of food being served to inmates at the residential school.
Victims Identified and Medical Condition Detailed
The hospitalized students have been identified as Vijay Kumar, a Class 8 student, and Prabhu Das, who is in Class 9. Vijay Kumar, a resident of Chodirai village in Gummirevula panchayat, reportedly suffered convulsions and slipped into unconsciousness following the physical punishment. Prabhu Das developed hypertension upon witnessing his friend's distressing condition.
Both students received initial treatment at a local Primary Health Centre (PHC) before being transferred to Narsipatnam Hospital for more comprehensive care. Medical professionals at Narsipatnam have since declared their conditions stable, though the psychological trauma remains a significant concern.
Incident Details and Conflicting Narratives
The confrontation took place in Darakonda, located within GK Veedhi mandal. Vijay Kumar and Prabhu Das, who reside at the Darakonda Odia camp, approached Headmaster Hemachandra to voice their grievances about the poor quality meals. They specifically requested that the school adhere to the prescribed nutritional menu.
According to the victims and their families, Headmaster Hemachandra became enraged and responded with physical violence, caning the students simply for advocating for better food standards. In stark contrast, school authorities have presented a different version of events, claiming both students were irregular in attendance and displayed indisciplined behavior. They asserted the headmaster "showed anger" merely as a disciplinary measure to bring the students under control.
Public Outcry and Official Response
The incident has sparked widespread outrage among parents, student associations, and various voluntary organizations. These groups have collectively demanded immediate and stern action against Headmaster Hemachandra. They have called upon District Collector AS Dinesh Kumar, the ITDA Project Officer, and other relevant authorities to intervene decisively.
In response to the escalating situation, authorities have issued a formal show-cause notice to Headmaster Hemachandra and ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the matter. District Collector AS Dinesh Kumar confirmed to media sources that investigation orders have been officially issued. He emphasized, "If the students were indisciplined, there are proper channels and methods to correct their behavior. Physical beating is absolutely unacceptable and will not be tolerated."
Broader Implications for School Discipline
This distressing event raises critical questions about disciplinary practices in educational institutions, particularly in residential schools where students are entirely dependent on the administration for their welfare. The clash between student rights to voice concerns and administrative authority has come into sharp focus, highlighting the need for clear protocols and humane treatment.
The investigation ordered by the district administration will now determine the exact sequence of events, assess the severity of the assault, and recommend appropriate disciplinary actions. The outcome is being closely watched by educational advocates and child rights organizations across the region.
