Jhalawar: At least seven students lost their lives and nearly 30 were injured after a portion of a government school building collapsed in Rajasthan’s Jhalawar district on Friday, July 25. The horrific incident took place at the Piplod Government School in Manoharthana block, just as children were assembling for morning prayers.
Here are the ten latest developments in the case so far:
1. Death toll rises to seven
Police confirmed that seven children died in the incident. Initial reports had put the toll at four, but it was later revised as more information came in from the rescue site.
2. 30 children injured, several critical
A total of 30 children have been injured. According to Superintendent of Police Amit Kumar, ten of them were referred to Jhalawar Hospital, with three to four students reported to be in critical condition.
3. Students were assembling for morning prayer
The tragedy occurred around the time of morning assembly. Around 35 students were inside the building when the roof gave way, catching everyone completely off guard.
4. Villagers, teachers led rescue efforts
Local teachers and villagers played a key role in rescuing the trapped children, pulling them out from the rubble before emergency teams arrived.
5. PM Modi reacts
PM Modi expressed his grief on X, he wrote, "The mishap at a school in Jhalawar, Rajasthan, is tragic and deeply saddening. My thoughts are with the affected students and their families in this difficult hour. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. Authorities are providing all possible assistance to those affected."
6. President Droupadi Murmu issues condolence message
President Murmu, in a message posted in Hindi on X, said, "The news of the collapse of a school roof in Jhalawar, Rajasthan, resulting in the death and injury of several students, is extremely tragic. I pray that God grants strength to the grieving families to bear this pain. I wish for the speedy recovery of the students injured in this accident."
7. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh offers condolences
Calling the loss of young lives "beyond words", Rajnath Singh wrote on X, "Saddened by the tragic accident at a school in Jhalawar, Rajasthan. The loss of young innocent lives is beyond words. My deepest condolences to the grieving families. Praying for the swift recovery of the injured."
8. Kota Divisional Commissioner visits hospital
Rajendra Singh Shekhawat, the Divisional Commissioner of Kota, visited the Jhalawar District Hospital to meet the injured children and speak with their families.
9. State leadership responds
Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma posted on X saying, "May God grant a place to the departed divine souls in his lotus feet" and added that officials had been instructed to ensure proper treatment for the injured.
10. Political leaders express solidarity
Congress leader Pratap Singh Khachariywas called the accident “heart-wrenching” and said, "In this hour of crisis, we all stand with the affected families." His statement reflected the mood of shock and grief that has gripped the state.
