Class 5 student dies of burns at Patna school, angry protesters block roads, pelt stones

“The school’s cook was the first to notice the flames and raised the alarm, after which staff rushed her to Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) in critical condition. She succumbed to her injuries later that day. FSL teams were called to the site to collect evidence, and available CCTV footage is being reviewed,” an officer said.

The officer said that during preliminary probe, it was learnt that the girl had not attended school in the four-five days before the incident.

“It is not yet clear if she set herself on fire or if someone else is involved. The school principal, staff, and others are being questioned,” the officer said.

The incident triggered immediate unrest, with angry relatives and locals gathering at the school, vandalising furniture in the administrative office, and clashing with teachers and police personnel. Senior police officers, including City SP (Central) Diksha, responded to restore order.

The girl’s father, a vegetable seller, and her mother, who works as a midwife, were among family members who said they suspected foul play and alleged that school teachers or other staff could be involved in the incident. They said the burns were not self-inflicted but came as part of a planned attack.

Based on the father’s statement, police have registered a case of murder and are trying to track the girl’s movements from the assembly to the bathroom.

A large crowd blocked roads near the school, burned tyres, and pelted stones at police attempting to clear the blockade. A constable suffered head injuries. An officer said that an FIR would be filed.