A devastating tragedy unfolded near the Police Quarters in Janawada village, Bidar district, where an 8-year-old schoolgirl was fatally run over by her own school bus. The incident, marked by heartbreaking negligence, has sent shockwaves through the community and led to emotional protests by the victim's grieving family.
The Fatal Accident
The deceased child has been identified as Ruthvi (8), a resident of Gadikushnoor village and a student at the Guru Nanak School in Janawada.
The accident occurred on Tuesday afternoon after the school bus had dropped Ruthvi off near her home.
- Moment of Negligence: According to preliminary reports and eyewitness accounts, the school bus had stopped to let the child alight. Ruthvi stepped out and was standing momentarily right next to the side of the bus.
- Driver's Oversight: Tragically, the bus driver failed to notice the child’s proximity to the vehicle after she had stepped down. Assuming the area was clear, the driver proceeded to move the bus forward, causing the vehicle to run over the young girl. Ruthvi died instantly at the scene.
- Family’s Grief: Upon receiving the news, Ruthvi’s family members rushed to the Bidar Institute of Medical Sciences (BRIMS) hospital, where heart-wrenching scenes unfolded as they grieved the sudden and tragic loss of their child.
Police Investigation and Case Filed
The local police have confirmed that the accident was caused by the driver's dangerous oversight. A case has been registered against the school bus driver at the Janawada Police Station.
The police have initiated an investigation to ascertain all circumstances leading to the tragedy, including adherence to school transport safety protocols. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the critical importance of mandatory safety checks and vigilance by school bus staff, particularly ensuring that children are clear of the vehicle before driving away. The community is demanding stringent action against the driver and a review of safety standards for all school transport services in the district.