Agartala, November 20, 2025: The Tripura Human Rights Commission (THRC) has sought a detailed explanation from the state’s School Education Department following the death of a seven-year-old girl, who allegedly collapsed due to extreme heat exposure during a school programme in Agartala.

Acting on suo motu cognisance, the Commission initiated proceedings after reports emerged that Dipanwita Paul, a Class II student of Kshudiram Basu English Medium School, was made to stand in an open field under scorching sunlight during an event organised to observe Vande Bharat. According to the order issued by THRC Chairperson Justice Arindam Lodh, teachers allegedly instructed students to remain in formation despite the harsh conditions.

Witnesses stated that Dipanwita complained multiple times of feeling unwell, but was asked to continue standing. Staff members reportedly covered their own heads to protect themselves from the heat but did not extend the same precaution to the children.

The child collapsed at the event and was rushed to GB Hospital, where she battled for life for eleven days before succumbing on Tuesday. Her father, Debashish Paul, alleged that the school displayed “no concern” during her treatment and did not visit the family. Dipanwita was the couple’s only child.

Describing the incident as a “gross violation of children’s human rights”, the Commission observed that the circumstances indicated a lack of basic care and humane treatment in the school environment. A notice has been issued to the Director of School Education, directing the department to provide a comprehensive report on the incident and actions taken.

The report is to be submitted within fifteen days, and the matter has been listed for the next hearing on December 26, 2025.