Orissa High Court Raises Alarm Over Unsafe British-Era School Building in Cuttack
The Orissa High Court has voiced grave concerns regarding the precarious state of a historic British-era building on Mission Road in Cuttack, which currently accommodates St Xavier's High School. The institution has been operating from this location since January, despite longstanding safety warnings.
Court's Scrutiny and Shocking Findings
A division bench comprising Justices K R Mohapatra and V Narasingh highlighted the issue after reviewing a report submitted by the Cuttack district administration on April 16. This inspection was mandated by earlier court directives to assess safety conditions across all schools in the city.
The bench remarked, "The report reveals a shocking state of affairs," noting that 48 schools had been inspected so far. It specifically singled out St Xavier's High School in Buxi Bazar, describing the institution as functioning in an "almost dilapidated building" that lacks a structural stability report.
Assurances and Court Directives
During the proceedings, Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Kamaljit Dash assured the court that necessary measures would be implemented to safeguard students, teaching staff, and non-teaching personnel. "If required, alternative arrangements will be made in consultation with the school management," Dash affirmed.
Taking note of this assurance, the bench has directed the authorities to submit an action-taken report by May 4. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on May 7.
Historical Significance and Safety Concerns
The building in question is a 143-year-old structure, exemplifying Indo-European architecture. Constructed in 1883 by civil surgeon Dr. W D Stewart as a residence, it was later donated to the Baptist Mission in 1887 for educational purposes. It became Christ Collegiate School in 1950.
Official records indicate that as early as February 20, 2016, the Public Works Department had warned that the structure was in a dangerously dilapidated condition and could collapse at any moment. Consequently, the school was relocated to a nearby facility in 2019.
However, the building was reopened after purported repairs, and St Xavier's High School commenced operations there from January 23, 2026, reigniting safety apprehensions.
Preservation Versus Safety Debate
The issue has also sparked a debate between preservation and safety. In 2019, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by lawyer Shivsankar Mohanty sought to declare the structure as a heritage building under the Orissa Municipal Corporation Act, citing its architectural and historical value. The high court had previously directed the civic body to address this plea.
The current court intervention underscores the urgent need to balance heritage conservation with the imperative of ensuring a safe learning environment for students and staff.
