Raptadu chainsaw attack victim shows signs of recovery; Jagan seeks ₹50 lakh compensation

The condition of Gopika, a Class X student of Zilla Parishad High School at Raptadu, who was injured in a chainsaw attack by a youth in her classroom two days ago, is improving.

HRD and IT Minister Nara Lokesh, who has been closely monitoring her health, announced the development in a post on X. Gopika is undergoing treatment at Manipal Hospital in Bengaluru.

“The panel of doctors have noted steady progress. She is conscious and has been visited by her mother. As her condition continues to improve, doctors plan to remove ventilator support later this evening. We continue to pray for her steady recovery,” Mr. Lokesh posted.

In another post, Mr. Lokesh praised Lakshmi, a friend of Gopika, for her courageous attempt to save her. Lakshmi too sustained injuries in the incident.

“When a man walked into their school with a chainsaw, Lakshmi didn’t run. She stepped forward and tried to shield her friend, and was seriously injured herself. She could have saved herself, but she chose to stand by her friend,” he said.

Mr. Lokesh said Lakshmi’s actions reminded everyone of the true meaning of friendship and bravery. The government stood firmly with both families and would ensure that they received the best possible medical care, he said.

He also assured that steps would be taken to ensure that no child in Andhra Pradesh ever felt unsafe in a classroom.

Meanwhile, former Chief Minister and YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy visited Gopika at Manipal Hospital on Monday and consoled her.

Speaking to the media later, Mr. Jagan strongly condemned the attack and demanded compensation of ₹50 lakh for Gopika’s family. He attributed the incident to the easy availability of liquor and ganja across the State.

The government should take responsibility and compensate the family, as the attacker had entered the ZP High School with an electric saw and attacked the girl, he said.

Such incidents occurred because of the government’s failure to protect women and minors, he alleged.

Mr. Jagan warned that if the government failed to pay the compensation, the YSRCP would take up the issue after returning to power and ensure that the amount was paid within a month.