Bantwal: Bantwal Rural police have registered a criminal case against the management members of Sri Rama Vidya Kendra, Kalladka, and others following the death of a child and injuries to several students after a tree fell on a school vehicle at Barimar on July 22.
The case was registered after investigators found that the school vehicle involved in the accident allegedly lacked valid statutory documents, raising serious concerns over compliance with transport safety regulations.
Case upgraded after investigation
Initially, Bantwal Rural police registered the incident as an Unnatural Death Report (UDR) No. 35/2026 under Section 194 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) following the fatal accident.
During the investigation, police sought a report from the Regional Transport Officer (RTO) to verify the legal status of the school vehicle involved in the incident. The report revealed that the vehicle’s insurance certificate and fitness certificate were not valid at the time of the accident.
Based on these findings, investigators initiated further action against those responsible for operating the vehicle.
Vehicle not registered in school’s name
Police also found that the vehicle was not registered in the name of Sri Rama Vidya Kendra, Kalladka.
Instead, the investigation revealed that ownership of the vehicle was with another trust. Investigators are examining the circumstances under which the vehicle was being used to transport schoolchildren despite the alleged deficiencies in documentation.
The findings prompted police to register a criminal case against the heads of the school’s management committee and others connected with the operation of the vehicle.
Charges under BNS and Motor Vehicles Act
According to the police, the accused have been booked for allegedly allowing a vehicle without valid mandatory documents to operate on public roads, thereby endangering the safety of students.
The case has been registered under Section 125 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Sections 196 and 192(1) of the Motor Vehicles Act.
Officials said the investigation will determine individual responsibility and whether additional legal provisions need to be invoked as the probe progresses.
Fatal accident shocked district
The incident occurred at Barimar on July 22 when a tree fell on the school vehicle carrying students, resulting in the death of a child and injuries to several others. The accident triggered widespread concern over the safety of school transport vehicles and the need for strict enforcement of transport regulations.
The tragedy also led to calls for comprehensive inspections of school vehicles to ensure compliance with mandatory safety norms, including valid registration, insurance and fitness certification.
Investigation continues
Police said the investigation is continuing and further evidence is being collected to establish accountability. Authorities are also examining all aspects related to the operation of the vehicle and compliance with legal requirements before it was used for transporting students.
The case highlights the importance of ensuring that school vehicles meet all statutory requirements so that the safety of children is not compromised.