Jhalawar, July 26: Seven children were killed and at least 28 others injured when a government school building collapsed in Rajasthan’s Jhalawar district on Friday, following days of continuous rainfall that weakened the structure, officials said. Eight children with critical injuries were referred to the district hospital, while others are being treated at a local health facility, authorities confirmed.
The incident occurred during school hours at the Government Primary School in the Khanpur block of Jhalawar. Initial reports suggest that the building had developed visible cracks and showed signs of structural instability over recent days, but no preventive action was taken.
In response, the school’s principal, Meena Garg, and four teachers have been placed under suspension for negligence. According to local officials, the staff failed to report the building’s deteriorating condition to higher authorities, despite being aware of the risks posed by the incessant rainfall.
Rescue operations concluded late in the afternoon as teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Relief Force (SDRF) worked alongside local authorities to search for survivors.
District Collector Amit Meena said a probe has been ordered, and compensation for the victims’ families is being arranged. “This tragedy could have been prevented. Those responsible will be held accountable,” Meena told reporters.
Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma expressed deep condolences and announced an ex gratia payment of ₹5 lakh for the families of each deceased child. The state government has directed immediate safety inspections of all school buildings in rain-affected areas across Rajasthan.
