Bhubaneswar: School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond on Tuesday ordered an inquiry into a shocking incident in which four students sustained burn injuries at a government school in Rayagada district.
The minister said all necessary steps are being taken to ensure proper medical care for the injured students.
Speaking to the media, Gond said he has directed the department secretary to look into the matter and submit a detailed report.
“Ensuring the best possible medical treatment for the injured students is our priority. A thorough investigation will be conducted, and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings,” the minister said.
The incident occurred on January 5, 2026, at Paikdakulguda High School in the Bissam Cuttack block under the Muniguda Police Station limits.
According to reports, a schoolboy allegedly hurled thinner, a solvent used to dilute paint, at four fellow students, causing severe burn injuries.
Teachers at the school immediately intervened and rushed the injured students to the Bissam Cuttack Community Health Centre for primary treatment. They were later shifted to Christian Hospital in Bissam Cuttack for advanced medical care. One of the students, whose condition is stated to be critical, was subsequently referred to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack for specialised treatment.
Meanwhile, the Muniguda Police have registered a case in connection with the incident and launched a detailed investigation to ascertain the circumstances leading to the incident.
