Tragic School Roof Collapse in Rajasthan Claims Lives of Seven Students

Eyewitness Account of the Incident

A student from the eighth grade, who witnessed the roof collapse at a school in Jhalawar, recounted that despite warnings about stones falling from above, the teacher instructed the students to remain seated. 'I was outside cleaning while the students were inside. Suddenly, stones began to fall from the roof, prompting the students to alert the teacher. She dismissed their concerns, telling them to stay put. When she stepped outside, all the senior girls were already out. Then, without warning, the roof gave way, trapping the students inside. We heard screams, and everyone rushed out. Villagers quickly came to help those who were trapped,' the eyewitness shared.

Official Response to the Incident

In the wake of public outrage over the tragic roof collapse that resulted in the deaths of seven students, District Magistrate Ajay Singh Rathore assured that strict measures would be taken against those responsible for the negligence that led to this disaster. 'I want to express my gratitude on behalf of the administration for the support shown by the residents of Piplodi during this tragic time. The families of the deceased children have made it clear that they want accountability and assurance that such incidents will not happen again. This situation is heartbreaking, and we will take action against those at fault,' Rathore stated.

Preventive Measures and Future Actions

Rathore further mentioned that the administration had already taken steps to ensure that school buildings in poor condition remain closed. 'On June 20, we issued directives prohibiting students from being in dilapidated buildings. We were unaware of the conditions here until after the tragedy occurred,' he added. He visited the District Hospital to meet with the injured students.

Political Reactions and Calls for Action

Former Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Vasundhara Raje, expressed that the roof collapse could have been prevented if the building had been recognized as unsafe and the students relocated. 'Seven children lost their lives, and around 27 were injured. We were shocked to hear this news. If the building had been identified as hazardous and the children moved to a safer location, this tragedy could have been avoided,' Raje stated after visiting the injured. She urged the Education Department to conduct thorough inspections of school buildings and relocate students from those deemed unsafe.

Community Response and Government Support

Following the incident, local residents protested, demanding accountability and justice for the victims. Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma expressed his sorrow in a video statement, stating, 'This is a tragic incident, and I am deeply saddened by the loss of innocent lives. The state government stands with the families affected by this tragedy. The administration has been instructed to ensure that the injured receive the best possible care. A thorough investigation will be conducted to prevent future occurrences.'

Compensation for Victims' Families

The state government has announced a compensation package of Rs 10 lakh for each family of the deceased students. Additionally, one family member from each household will be offered a contractual job, and plans are in place to reconstruct the school building, with new classrooms dedicated to the memory of the children who lost their lives.