Karnataka Lokayukta Orders District Wide School Safety Audit After Ceiling Collapse

The Karnataka Lokayukta has initiated suo motu proceedings and ordered a comprehensive safety audit of government schools in Bagalkote district after a concrete ceiling collapsed at Mugalolli Tanda Government Primary School. The incident occurred on Wednesday, September 2, while classes were underway, resulting in injuries to six students. Reports indicate the injuries were minor, although one girl remained under observation in the hospital for a head injury.

The Lokayukta has directed its police wing to conduct random inspections and ordered the Education Department to perform a safety audit of all schools in the district. This audit will evaluate structural conditions, compound walls, toilets, drinking water facilities, playgrounds, and general hygiene. The Lokayukta further mandated that classes must not be held in any portion of a building identified as unsafe until a qualified engineer certifies the structure or alternative locations are arranged.

Authorities have been asked to provide records regarding previous safety certificates, parent complaints, and the status of funds sanctioned for repairs. Notices have been issued to officials from the State Education Department, the Bagalkote district administration, the Zilla Panchayat, the Panchayat Raj Engineering Department, and the school's headmaster. Both reports note that parents had previously raised concerns about the dilapidated state of the school building before the collapse occurred.