Bagalkot, 6 July

4 students and a school attendant were injured at the Government Higher Primary School in Balakundi village of Ilkal Taluk in Bagalkot district, where the school's main gate collapsed. Reports say the gate detached from its hinge while it was being opened.

A Class 3 student identified as Nayanakumari, who was right underneath the almost 5-quintal gate, sustained major facial injuries and suffered heavy bleeding. She was taken to Ilkal Hospital, where the other students are being treated, and later shifted to a private hospital in Bagalkot for further treatment.

Locals claim the gate had collapsed one other time in the past year, and that no repairs were undertaken despite repeated complaints to the school authorities.

"We have collected information about the incident and necessary action will be taken as per rules," said Ilkal Block Education Officer Jasmine Killeedar. She also visited the hospital and enquired after the health of Nayanakumari, whose family is originally from Uttar Pradesh. 

Police and education department personnel have visited the spot and further investigations are underway.