Panic gripped the North Bharat Chandranagar Higher Secondary School in Belonia under South Tripura district on Wednesday after several students reportedly fell ill during classes, with around eight of them allegedly losing consciousness after experiencing breathing difficulties.
The incident has sparked concern among parents, students and the school authorities. Questions have also been raised over how and why so many students became ill at the same time. The Headmaster, along with officials of the District Education Department, expressed concern over the incident.
According to reports, this is the second such incident involving students at the school. A total of 13 students were reportedly taken to Belonia Hospital for treatment. Among them, one is a boy while the remaining 12 are girls. All the affected students are reportedly studying in Class VII.
The students complained of breathing difficulties, cramps or stiffness in their hands and legs, and a burning sensation in the chest. Some students reportedly became unconscious during the incident.
Parents have alleged that after the students fell ill, the teachers and staff of the school initially did not take the necessary initiative to transport them to the hospital. However, after the students were taken to the hospital, the Headmaster and other teachers reportedly arrived there.
Following the incident, the District Education Officer and the Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Belonia also reached the hospital and took stock of the situation.
The exact reason behind the sudden illness of so many students remains unclear. Authorities are expected to ascertain the cause and examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.