Crime – A 58-year-old woman working under the mid-day meal scheme was fatally attacked inside a government primary school in Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra district on Thursday afternoon, triggering shock and concern among parents and local residents. The incident took place in Chinaur village in the Dehra subdivision and occurred while students were present on campus.
According to police officials, the victim, identified as Salochna Devi, was performing her regular duties in the school kitchen when a man entered the premises and assaulted her with a sickle. The attack unfolded in broad daylight and reportedly in close proximity to classrooms where children were studying.
Teachers rushed out after hearing screams from students. When they reached the kitchen area, they found Salochna lying critically injured while the accused was still at the scene holding the sharp-edged weapon. Staff members asked him to leave immediately, but he allegedly responded with threats, creating panic within the campus.
As tension escalated, teachers from a nearby school hurried to assist. In an effort to prevent further harm, they threw stones at the attacker, forcing him to flee from the premises. The swift response by school staff is believed to have prevented the situation from worsening further.
Salochna was immediately taken to a nearby community health centre for emergency treatment. However, doctors declared her dead on arrival.
Police later identified the accused as Rakesh Kumar, 48, a resident of the same village. He was apprehended within hours of the incident following a search operation in the area.
Authorities have registered a case of murder and initiated a detailed investigation to determine the motive behind the attack. Officials said preliminary inquiries are underway, and statements from witnesses are being recorded. The weapon used in the assault has also been seized as part of the investigation.
Police officials stated that the accused and the victim belonged to the same locality, though the exact reason that led to the violent act has not yet been confirmed. Investigators are examining whether there was any prior dispute between the two.
News of the killing spread quickly through Chinaur village, prompting anxious parents to rush to the school campus. Many expressed concern over the safety of children and questioned how an outsider was able to enter the school premises during class hours.
Parents have reportedly demanded stricter security arrangements, including controlled entry points and improved monitoring systems to prevent unauthorized access. The incident has renewed debate around safety protocols in rural government schools, particularly those without permanent security personnel.
Local authorities have assured residents that necessary steps will be taken to review security arrangements. Officials indicated that discussions with the education department may follow to assess existing safeguards and consider improvements where required.
The killing has left the village community shaken. Salochna Devi had been associated with the school’s meal program and was known among students and staff. Her sudden death inside a space meant for children’s learning has deeply affected residents.
Police have confirmed that the accused remains in custody and will be produced before a court as per legal procedure. Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.
The case has once again highlighted the importance of school safety and the need for vigilance to ensure that educational institutions remain secure environments for both students and staff.
