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Concerns Over Safety in Tribal Residential Schools

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Parents’ Federation (OPF) has raised alarm over ongoing safety issues in Tribal Residential Welfare (TRW) schools, particularly impacting female students. In a formal communication to the Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the ST & SC Development, Minorities & Backward Classes Welfare Department, B Parameswaran, the Federation called for immediate action to avert further incidents of abuse and negligence.

The letter, authored by OPF president Basudev Bhatt, highlighted alarming instances of pregnancies and sexual abuse involving underage girls in government-run tribal schools. A recent incident in Chitrakonda, Malkangiri (February 2025) involved a 15-year-old girl who gave birth to a premature baby on the hostel rooftop shortly after her board exams. Officials reportedly overlooked her pregnancy for eight months, indicating a significant lack of supervision. Consequently, the headmaster, hostel matron, and a nurse were suspended, and a case was initiated under the POCSO Act.

Another case in Rayagada, where a minor girl also became pregnant, has reignited concerns regarding the safety and oversight of hostels. Government statistics reveal 21 pregnancy cases and 16 instances of sexual abuse in TRW schools since 2010. "Our daughters are not safe in these hostels. These are not isolated incidents but symptoms of a failing system," Bhatt stated. The Federation criticized the department for neglecting scheduled grievance redressal meetings, including one on September 1, labeling it an unfortunate attempt to evade discussion.

The Federation's demands include an immediate stakeholder meeting, implementation of CCTV surveillance, hiring female wardens, conducting regular health screenings, and creating confidential grievance mechanisms for students. They also called for mandatory training for staff on the POCSO Act and stricter accountability measures.

The OPF emphasized that their goal is not personal gain but to ensure the safety and dignity of marginalized SC and ST girl students. They have requested a written response and a meeting with the Commissioner within two weeks to discuss a concrete action plan. As public outrage grows, the state government is under increasing pressure to take decisive measures to protect students in residential schools.