NHRC seeks report from Bihar authorities over pillar collapse, bench-supported roof at Darbhanga school

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has sought a detailed report from Bihar authorities after the roof of a government school collapsed and is being temporarily supported by wooden benches, desks, and bricks underneath.

NHRC has taken suo motu cognisance of media reports that the roof of a government primary school in Kiratpur, Darbhanga district, Bihar, is being temporarily supported by benches and desks, putting safety of about 191 students and school staff at risk.

The commission has issued a notice to the Darbhanga District Magistrate and has asked for a detailed report on the matter within two weeks.

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Pillar collapse at govt school

As per media reports, after one of the pillars collapsed at Kiratpur primary govt school around three to four months ago, and instead of replacing the pillars, benches, desks and bricks have been placed underneath the roof to support it, school authorities said.

The school runs Classes from 1 to 5 with only two rooms. One of the rooms is occupied by office furniture and an almirah, leaving less space for regular classes. Moreover, with the building in such poor condition, lessons are being held in open areas, including a kitchen shed.

The two-room school was established in 1983 under the Centre’s ‘Operation Blackboard’ programme. More than four decades later, its roof leaks during rain, several beams and pillars are in a “dilapidated” condition, plaster has come off in multiple places, and reinforcement bars are visible, HT reported.