Teenage Student Delivers Baby in Karnataka School Hostel
A 15-year-old Class 10 student from a government-aided school in Karnataka's Koppal district gave birth on Wednesday, exposing critical lapses in child safety protocols at educational institutions. The minor, who hails from an economically disadvantaged family and resided in the government hostel, was rushed to Women and Children's Hospital in Koppal after experiencing sudden abdominal pain.
The incident has triggered outrage among parents and local community members who are demanding answers from school and hostel authorities about how the pregnancy remained undetected throughout its duration.
Police Action and Official Response
Local law enforcement has taken swift action by arresting a man believed to be responsible for the pregnancy. The case has been registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, which mandates stringent punishment for sexual crimes against minors.
Senior district officials including Deputy Commissioner Suresh B Itnal and Superintendent of Police Ram Arasiddi immediately visited the hospital to check on the girl's condition. Speaking to media representatives, Itnal confirmed they have assessed the situation and will initiate appropriate legal proceedings.
Accountability Questions and Disturbing Patterns
Sources familiar with the investigation revealed that hostel authorities were aware of the student's condition but deliberately remained silent, raising serious questions about their accountability and duty of care toward children under their supervision.
This case highlights a broader concerning pattern in Karnataka. Health department data shows that between 2021-22 and 2023-24, 39,392 girls in the state delivered babies, with 156 being just 14-15 years old and 419 aged 15-16 years.
The Koppal incident follows similar cases across Karnataka. In August, a Grama Panchayat president in Belagavi district was arrested for allegedly marrying and impregnating a 15-year-old girl. The same month witnessed a Class 9 student in Shivamogga district delivering a premature baby at home, with her parents claiming unawareness of her seven-month pregnancy.
These repeated incidents underscore the urgent need for stronger child protection mechanisms and more vigilant supervision in educational residential facilities across the state.
