A 21-year-old man accused of attacking two Class 10 students with a chainsaw inside their school in Andhra Pradesh's Anantapur district was seriously injured in police firing on Sunday, November 1, after allegedly attacking officers and attempting to escape arrest.
The accused, identified as Hemanth alias Dummu, was located in the Atmakur forest area following an extensive search operation. He was taken to a government hospital for treatment.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and raised serious concerns about student safety and security arrangements in educational institutions. Police confirmed that the accused was shot after allegedly assaulting personnel involved in his arrest.
Chainsaw Attack Inside School Classroom
The original attack took place on October 31 at Zilla Parishad High School in Raptadu village, Anantapur district. According to police reports, Hemanth allegedly entered the school premises carrying a chainsaw and attacked a 15-year-old Class 10 student inside her classroom while lessons were underway.
The girl sustained severe injuries, including serious damage to her right arm, face and head. Another girl student was also injured when she attempted to intervene and protect her classmate.
Both victims were initially taken to the Government General Hospital in Anantapur. The critically injured student was subsequently shifted to Bengaluru for advanced medical treatment.
Police Operation Ends in Firing
Following the attack, police launched a search operation to locate the accused. Acting on information about his whereabouts, multiple police teams tracked him to the Atmakur forest area.
According to Anantapur Superintendent of Police Jagadeesh, the accused allegedly resisted arrest and attacked police personnel with a knife, injuring an inspector. Officers opened fire after he continued resisting, with approximately six rounds reportedly fired, including warning shots. He sustained bullet injuries to his lower body.
Alleged Stalking Motive Under Investigation
Investigators are examining reports that the accused had allegedly been stalking the girl and that the attack followed her rejection of his advances. The accused was reportedly related to the victim.
Chief Minister Orders Action
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu condemned the attack and directed officials to ensure the best possible medical treatment for the victims. Education Minister Nara Lokesh also announced psychological counselling support for affected students.
The incident has renewed concerns about the entry of unauthorised individuals into school premises and the need for stronger security measures to protect children. The investigation remains underway.