The deplorable conditions at the Eklavya Adarsh Residential School in Chotedongar, Orchha block, Narayanpur district of Chhattisgarh’s Bastar division, have sparked outrage across the state. Disturbing images reveal that bathrooms in the school’s Jahan Hostel have been converted into makeshift living spaces for students. Tribal children, enduring claustrophobic and unsanitary conditions, are forced to cover toilet seats with mats to create sleeping areas in an attempt to make the spaces livable.
Instead of addressing these serious issues, Chhattisgarh’s Forest and Climate Change Minister, Kedar Kashyap, chose to threaten those who exposed the plight. He stated, “Who gave them the authority to take these photographs? No one is allowed to enter these areas without the administration’s permission. Female students live there. Action will be taken against those responsible for bringing out the issue in this manner.” His comments have drawn widespread criticism, adding fuel to the controversy.
In another shocking revelation, a CCTV camera allegedly installed near the girls’ shower area by the hostel principal has led to further outrage. Calls for an FIR and stringent action against the principal are growing. A team led by the Assistant Commissioner of the Tribal Development Branch has been dispatched to investigate, and a report will be submitted to the district collector, Bipin Manjhi.
ADM Virendra Bahadur Panchbhai confirmed receiving information about both incidents and assured action based on the inquiry report. Meanwhile, students at the residential school have shared harrowing accounts of the conditions. Toilets have been unusable for over two months, with broken doors and an overwhelming stench making it difficult for both teachers and students to stay on campus. Many students lack basic necessities like blankets, and overcrowding has forced them to sleep in bathrooms.
Prabhavi Mishra, the school superintendent, stated that senior authorities have been repeatedly informed about the dire situation but have failed to act. A promised building for the school has been pending for six years, leaving the school grossly overcrowded and under-resourced.
The hostel currently houses 180 students despite having a capacity of only 50. Two schools are being operated in the same building, resulting in boys and girls sharing limited space. Sunita, a teacher at the school, highlighted that due to the severe room shortage, students have converted toilet areas into living spaces by covering seats with mats and placing beds and tables there. She noted that girls suffer the most, as broken toilet doors force them to go outside for basic needs, compromising their safety and dignity.
Hostel Warden Kishan confirmed that higher authorities have been informed about the overcrowding, but no action has been taken. Phool Singh, a tribal leader, criticised the administration for adding 180 students to a facility meant for only 50, exacerbating the crisis.
