Lokayukta orders probe, safety audit after Bagalkot school ceiling collapse
Lokayukta registers suo motu case over ceiling collapse at Bagalkot government school; orders safety audits and structural checks.
The Karnataka Lokayukta has initiated a suo motu inquiry into the collapse of a concrete ceiling at a government primary school in Mugalolli Tanda, Bagalkot district. The incident occurred during class hours and left six students injured, though their injuries were reported to be minor and all are said to be safe.
The school building was reportedly in a dilapidated condition, and parents had previously raised concerns about its structural safety. Taking serious note of the incident, the Lokayukta has directed its police wing to conduct random inspections of government primary schools across Bagalkot district and submit a comprehensive report on the condition of school buildings.
The Education Department has been asked to carry out a safety audit of every school in the district, covering structural integrity, student safety, basic infrastructure, cleanliness, hygiene, playgrounds, compound walls, toilets, and availability of safe drinking water. The Lokayukta has also directed that classes must not be held in any portion of a building identified as unsafe, and alternative arrangements should be made until a qualified engineer certifies the structure as safe.
As part of the proceedings, officials must provide details on the date and circumstances of the collapse, the number of students present, particulars of the injured children, and the treatment provided. Notices have been issued to officials from the State Education Department, Dharwad Division, Bagalkot District Administration, Zilla Panchayat, Panchayat Raj Engineering Department, and the school's headmaster.