Rapthadu School Attack: Survivor Gopika Showing Steady Progress, Ventilator Removal Planned
Education Minister Nara Lokesh shares positive updates on Gopika, the student attacked in Rapthadu, as doctors plan to remove her ventilator.
In a heartening update following a brutal assault, Andhra Pradesh Education Minister Nara Lokesh has announced that Gopika, the Class 10 student who survived a horrific attack at a Zilla Parishad High School in Rapthadu, is showing steady progress. The student, who has been battling for her life, is now conscious and is expected to be taken off ventilator support.
Positive Medical Update
Gopika is currently receiving specialized treatment at Manipal Hospital in Bengaluru. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Minister Nara Lokesh shared the good news, stating that a panel of doctors has observed significant improvement in her condition. The Minister revealed that the young girl is conscious and has already been visited by her mother.
Due to this consistent recovery, medical professionals plan to remove her ventilator support later this evening. Lokesh expressed his hopes for her continued healing, noting that prayers remain with the child for a full recovery.
Trauma Support for Affected Students
Recognizing the deep psychological scar left by the incident, the Andhra Pradesh government has launched a comprehensive trauma-response initiative. Minister Lokesh announced the deployment of 20 mental health counsellors to provide emotional aid to the students.
The support system includes:
- Door-to-door visits: Counsellors are visiting the homes of all 32 students from Class 10-A.
- Extended support: Female students in Classes 8, 9, and 10 are also receiving attention to ensure they feel safe and supported.
- Parental guidance: The team is engaging with both children and parents to help them cope with the trauma resulting from the disturbing event.
The Brutal Incident and Police Action
The incident occurred when an intruder, identified as a relative of the victim, entered the Class 10 classroom during school hours. The assailant brutally attacked Gopika with a wood-cutting saw/blade. In a courageous attempt to save her, another classmate tried to intervene and was also injured in the process.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu strongly condemned the attack. In a phone call to the injured student, the Chief Minister urged her to stay brave and promised that the perpetrator would face the harshest possible legal punishment.
The Manhunt and Arrest
Following the attack, Anantapur police formed 15 specialized teams to track down the suspect. The pursuit ended in a violent confrontation on the outskirts of the Atmakur forest area.
According to Superintendent of Police Jagadeesh, the accused attempted to attack police personnel with a knife during the operation, resulting in an injury to an inspector. In response, the police opened fire, leaving the accused critically injured. He is currently receiving treatment at GJ Chananthapuram.