Balangir: Two Class IX students of a private school in Balangir allegedly jumped into a pond to escape ragging by seniors.
As per reports, the incident took place at a hostel in the Palace Line area. The two boarders reportedly scaled the boundary wall and fled the premises. Senior students chased them, following which the duo, in panic, jumped into the Maharani Sagar pond at Ichhapada.
However, a major tragedy was averted as locals acted swiftly. Alerted by an elderly person who witnessed the incident, some youths rushed to the pond and rescued both students.
The rescued boys alleged that they were beaten up inside the hostel, a charge denied by the school management.
On being informed, Balangir Town police reached the spot, started an inquiry and recorded the statements of students and school staff.
The minors were later handed over to their families. Further investigation is underway.
