Another student was also injured in the attack, which took place while a teacher was conducting a class. The accused has been arrested, and police have launched an investigation into the incident.

The victim was immediately rushed to the Government General Hospital in Anantapur for treatment.

Sources close to the development told India Today that the attacker entered the school premises and assaulted the girl with a chainsaw, leaving her with severe injuries to her face and head.

Police have launched a probe to establish the sequence of events leading up to the attack. The motive behind the assault and the circumstances surrounding it remain unclear.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said the incident had left him "shaken".

In a post on X, he wrote: "I am deeply shaken and enraged by the barbaric attack on a Class 10 student inside her classroom at Raptadu ZP High School. Attackers who target our young girls inside schools have no place in our society."

He further said: "I am personally tracking her recovery and have directed the medical team to give her the highest priority care. I have ordered the police to hunt down the monster responsible and deliver the harshest legal punishment swiftly."

State Minister Nara Lokesh also expressed shock and anguish over the attack.

In a post on X, he said: "I am deeply anguished and shocked by the brutal attack on a Class 10 student inside her school in Rapthadu, Anantapur district. Such an inhuman act against a young girl in a place meant for learning and safety is utterly reprehensible.

"Hon'ble CM @ncbn Garu has directed the police to take swift and stringent action against the perpetrator and ensure he is brought to justice. The safety and dignity of every girl and woman are paramount. Such acts of brutality will not be tolerated."