Chainsaw attack inside Andhra school leaves 2 Class 10 girls critical
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Two Class 10 girl students are fighting for their lives after a man attacked them with a chainsaw inside a school in Raptadu, Anantapur district, Andhra Pradesh, on 31 October 2026, officials said. One victim sustained deep wounds to her neck, abdomen, and face, with her right hand reportedly nearly severed in the assault. The second girl was injured while attempting to intervene and shield her classmate from the attacker.
What Happened Inside the School
According to officials, the assailant entered the school premises in Raptadu and reached a classroom without being intercepted by security personnel or school staff. The attack triggered immediate panic across the campus, with students and teachers fleeing for safety. After the attacker fled, teachers alerted police and called for an ambulance. Both victims were subsequently transferred to a private hospital for emergency critical care.
Condition of the Victims
The primary victim sustained severe injuries to her face, head, throat, neck, and abdomen. Her right hand was reportedly almost severed during the assault. The second student, who attempted to intervene, also sustained serious injuries. Both girls are currently in critical condition, according to officials.
Investigation Under Way
Police in Anantapur have launched an extensive investigation and an active manhunt to apprehend the attacker, who fled the scene after the assault. Investigators are examining multiple aspects of the case, including whether the accused had any prior acquaintance with the victim. Officials said they are yet to establish a motive or confirm the identity of the assailant.
School Security Under Scrutiny
Family members of the victims and parents of other students have raised serious concerns over the school's security arrangements, questioning how an individual carrying a chainsaw could enter the premises, access the building, and reach a classroom undetected. This incident comes amid broader national anxiety over school safety — notably, a separate incident in Haryana's Panchkula in which a six-year-old was allegedly assaulted by a Class 3 student at a government school, footage of which reportedly went viral after being captured on CCTV. Both incidents have intensified calls for mandatory security protocols at educational institutions across India.
What Happens Next
Authorities in Andhra Pradesh have not yet announced any immediate security review at schools in the district. The manhunt for the attacker is ongoing. The medical condition of both injured students remains critical, and further updates are expected from the treating hospital as investigations continue.