Search Underway for Missing Student After Classmate Found Dead in Ujjain

Itanagar, India Jul 14, 2026 ALN: The body of a 15-year-old student from Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya was discovered in a pond near the school's campus in Madhya 's Ujjain district on Tuesday. This tragic event has sparked a search for another student who went missing alongside him from the hostel, according to police reports.

The deceased has been identified as Pragyan Vimal, a Class 10 student. His classmate, Roshan Baretha, aged 14 and in Class 9, remains unaccounted for as of Tuesday afternoon. The circumstances surrounding their disappearance have raised numerous questions, prompting both local authorities and the community to seek answers.

According to police, both students vanished from the residential school's hostel late Monday night. Their absence was noted during the night attendance check, prompting the school administration to alert the police. This highlights the importance of regular attendance checks in boarding schools, which are crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of students.

A police team quickly arrived at the campus to initiate a search operation. Investigators reviewed CCTV footage and interviewed other students, but the missing boys could not be located during the night. The initial investigation revealed that the students had last been seen in the hostel, and their disappearance raised immediate concerns about their safety.

“After receiving information from the school, we immediately started a search operation. CCTV footage is being examined, and all possible angles are under investigation. The exact sequence of events will become clear after the investigation is completed,”

stated Karan Khowal, in-charge of Ghattia police station, while addressing reporters. This statement underscores the proactive measures being taken by law enforcement to address the situation and the urgency of the investigation.

At approximately 6 a.m. on Tuesday, local residents alerted the police after spotting a body floating in a pond, which is an agricultural pit filled with water located near the school boundary. The body was retrieved with assistance from villagers and later confirmed to be that of Pragyan Vimal. This discovery has not only brought sorrow to the families involved but has also raised alarms about the safety of students in residential schools.

The authorities have sent the body to the district hospital for a post-mortem examination and have registered a case. Officials indicated that the precise cause of death will be determined once the post-mortem report is available. The community is anxiously awaiting the results, as they could provide crucial insights into the events leading up to the tragedy.

Meanwhile, teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), local police, and divers are actively searching the pond and its surrounding areas in hopes of locating the missing student. The involvement of multiple agencies illustrates the seriousness of the situation and the commitment to finding Roshan Baretha.

“The search for the second student is continuing with the help of SDRF personnel and local divers. Further action will be taken based on the post-mortem report and ongoing investigation. If any negligence on the part of the school management is found, legal action will be taken against those responsible,”

Khowal added.

This statement reflects the authorities' intention to hold accountable any parties that may have contributed to the unfortunate circumstances surrounding the students' disappearance.

This incident has raised significant concerns regarding the security measures in place at the fully residential school, with family members and local residents expressing their fears over lapses in hostel supervision and nighttime security. The Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas are known for their emphasis on providing quality education to talented students from rural areas, but incidents like this bring to light the critical need for robust safety protocols.

The community's reaction has been one of shock and grief, as the loss of a young life resonates deeply within families and friends. Parents of students at the school have voiced their concerns, questioning how such a tragedy could occur in a place where their children are expected to be safe. Many are calling for immediate reviews of safety measures and protocols at the institution.

As the search continues, the community remains hopeful for the safe return of Roshan Baretha. Vigils and gatherings have been organized by local residents to pray for the missing student, demonstrating the solidarity and support of the community during this difficult time. The emotional toll of such incidents can be significant, affecting not only the families directly involved but also the broader community.

In light of this incident, educational authorities may need to reassess and enhance safety measures within residential schools across the region. This includes implementing stricter supervision protocols, ensuring that all areas of the campus are adequately monitored, and improving communication between school staff and law enforcement agencies. The tragic loss of Pragyan Vimal serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that can exist in seemingly secure environments.

As investigations proceed, it will be essential for the school administration to cooperate fully with authorities, providing all necessary information to aid in the search for Roshan Baretha and in understanding the circumstances surrounding the death of Pragyan Vimal. Transparency in the investigation process will be crucial for restoring trust among parents and the community.

This incident may also prompt broader discussions regarding the mental health and well-being of students in residential settings. The pressures faced by young individuals in such environments can sometimes lead to distressing outcomes, and it is vital for schools to provide adequate support systems for students facing challenges.

As the days unfold, the hope remains that Roshan Baretha will be found safe and sound. The community continues to rally together, offering support to one another, as they navigate through this trying time. The memories of the two students will remain in the hearts of those who knew them, serving as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of vigilance in ensuring the safety of all students.