In a shocking case of negligence from Andhra Pradesh, a six-year-old boy died in Panyam of Kurnool district after falling into a vessel of piping hot sambar. The incident happened at the hostel of Vijayanikethan English Meduim High School where he is studying.
The deceased Purushotham Reddy (6), who was studying in UKG, fell into the vessel on Wednesday during lunch time. According to police, the boy was shifted to a local hospital initially, and later to the Kurnool General Hospital where he died while undergoing treatment.
Purushotham hailed from Tippayipalli of Orvakal mandal.
Purushotham's parents Shyamsunder Reddy, Kalpana and relatives along with student organisations, staged a protest at the school demanding justice.
Shyamsunder alleged that negligence and lack of monitoring by the management has resulted in the death of his son. Speaking to local media, he said, "We have paid thousands in fees without negotiating in view of his future, but who will bring back my son? How can the boy fall into sambar? Why was no one guarding the students during lunch time? Isn't this negligence?
He further added that in order to prevent recurrence of such a situation, officials should book the school management.
The school authorities have switched off their mobiles and gone out of contact as the student organisations staged protests. Panyam police have registered a case after pacifying the family and students.
Speaking to TNM, Panyam Circle Inspector Jeevan said, "As per our probe, the incident happened during lunch hour. He died while undergoing treatment at Kurnool hospital after falling in the hot sambar vessel. He(boy) seemed to be in a rush to get his plate served before falling (into the vessel).”
He further added, "There is visible negligence in monitoring the dining hall. We have registered a case based on a complaint from the student's father.”
Police have registered the case under section 304 of the IPC for causing death by rash or negligent act, against the school management. Police also told TNM that they may add other sections to the case following investigation.
District Education Officer Sai Ram said that a committee was formed to probe the incident following orders from the District Collector. He said, "This is an unfortunate incident. The team of officials is already probing it and we will definitely take action against the persons responsible."