MADIKERI:Tragedy struck a family from Chettimani village in Kodagu district when their seven-year-old son, Pushpak, a class II student, died in a fire that broke out at his boarding school hostel early Thursday. The incident occurred at Har Mandir School Hostel of CGSIES in Katakeri village, Madikeri taluk, reportedly due to a short circuit around 4 am.
Fire breaks out during early hours
According to preliminary reports, the fire started when most of the hostel’s 53 students were asleep. Thick smoke filled the building, prompting one student to open a window and alert others. Hostel staff and the warden quickly rushed to evacuate the children. However, after the headcount, it was discovered that Pushpak was missing.
Fire department personnel arrived promptly but were unable to locate Pushpak amid the intense flames and dense smoke. When the blaze was finally brought under control, his charred body was found inside the dormitory.
Suspected short circuit cause
Deputy Commissioner Venkat Raja, who visited the site, said that the fire was likely caused by a short circuit. “A proper investigation will be conducted. As of now, it appears the blaze started due to a short circuit,” he said. The district administration has ordered a detailed inquiry into the safety standards and permits of the school.
Officials also said that fire safety compliance and infrastructure of the institution would be thoroughly reviewed to prevent such incidents in the future.
Family in shock
Pushpak, the son of farmer Anil Kumar and Triveni, had returned to the hostel just four days ago after the Dasara vacation. His sister, Sinchana, a class VI student at the same school, was inconsolable and reportedly begged rescuers to save her brother.
Pushpak’s mother, Triveni, broke down while recalling her son’s excitement to return to school. “He was so happy to go back after the holidays. He loved school and wanted to be with his sister. He was interested in sports and very creative,” she said.
After the postmortem, Pushpak’s remains were handed over to his family for the last rites.
Support and compensation announced
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s legal advisor and Virajpet MLA A. S. Ponnanna visited the grieving family in Chettimani and announced a compensation of ₹5 lakh from the state government. He also met officials at the district hospital and assured all possible support to the bereaved parents.
Meanwhile, the school management has expressed deep sorrow and pledged assistance to Pushpak’s family. The Madikeri rural police have registered a case and launched a detailed investigation to ascertain responsibility.
Conclusion
The heart-rending tragedy has left the local community in shock, raising serious concerns about fire safety standards in residential schools. Authorities have promised strict action against any lapses found during the probe.