Fresh controversy has hit Kandhamal’s government-run residential school system after two Class 10 minor girls from a Government Residential Girls’ High School in Tumudibandh block were found to be pregnant.
The incident was detected during a post–summer vacation menstrual health check, when both students tested positive and subsequent medical examinations confirmed the pregnancies.
According to sources, the school authorities immediately informed higher officials and then filed written complaints at the concerned police stations. On the basis of these complaints, Kotagarh Police registered Case No. 103/25 and Belghar Police registered Case No. 64/25.
Police said the two students belong to areas under Kotagarh and Belghar police station limits. Belghar Police have detained one youth for questioning, while Kotagarh Police said they have identified the accused youth linked to their case and further investigation is underway.
The episode has once again raised serious questions over monitoring, safety, and welfare mechanisms in Odisha’s residential schools for girls, with calls likely to intensify for stricter oversight and preventive protocols.