Anantapur School Chainsaw Attack Hemanth Arrested After Attacking Class 10 Student Gopika

A 21-year-old man has been arrested after allegedly attacking Class 10 student Gopika with a chainsaw at Raptadu school in Anantapur district.

Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh | November 1, 2026

A shocking incident at a government school in Andhra Pradesh's Anantapur district has raised serious concerns about the safety of girl students inside educational institutions. A 21-year-old man allegedly entered a classroom at Raptadu Zilla Parishad High School and attacked a Class 10 student, identified as Gopika, with a chainsaw.

The accused, identified as Hemanth alias Dummu, was arrested by police at Dharmavaram railway station following the attack on Saturday morning, October 31.

Another student, identified as Lakshmi, was also injured when she attempted to intervene and protect Gopika.

The incident reportedly took place at around 10:30 AM while classes were in progress and a teacher was present inside the classroom. The sudden attack created panic among students and school staff.

Accused Arrested at Dharmavaram Railway Station

Following the attack, Hemanth allegedly fled from the school premises. Police launched an investigation and search operation to locate him.

Acting on information about his whereabouts, police traced and arrested him at Dharmavaram railway station.

According to preliminary reports, the accused belongs to Nagalur village in Dharmavaram mandal of Sri Sathya Sai district and is reportedly a distant relative of the victim.

He is now in police custody as investigators examine the circumstances surrounding the attack.

Rejected Marriage Proposal Suspected to Be Behind Attack

Preliminary reports suggest that the accused had allegedly proposed a relationship and marriage to Gopika, but she rejected his proposal and asked him to stay away from her.

The accused is suspected of having attacked the student following this rejection.

However, the precise motive and sequence of events are subject to police investigation. Investigators are examining the relationship between the accused and the victim as part of the case.

Gopika Sustains Critical Injuries

Gopika suffered severe injuries to her face, head, neck and back in the attack.

She was immediately shifted to Anantapur Government General Hospital, where doctors provided emergency medical treatment and performed surgery.

Doctors have indicated that she requires further specialised treatment, including plastic surgery for her facial injuries. At the time of the latest reports on October 31, her condition remained critical, and she was not yet considered out of danger.

Arrangements for shifting her to a specialised hospital in Bengaluru by air ambulance were also reported.

The medical team is continuing efforts to provide the necessary treatment.

Student Lakshmi Injured While Trying to Save Her Friend

Another Class 10 student, Lakshmi, attempted to intervene when the accused attacked Gopika.

During the incident, Lakshmi also sustained injuries. She was taken for medical treatment, and reports indicated that her condition was stable.

The courage shown by the student in attempting to protect her classmate has drawn attention amid the shocking incident.

Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu Assures Full Support

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed deep shock and anger over the attack.

The Chief Minister reportedly spoke directly with Gopika's mother over the phone, enquired about her daughter's medical condition and assured the family that the government would extend all possible assistance.

He also directed officials and the medical team to ensure the highest priority treatment for the injured student.

Naidu instructed the police to take stringent legal action against the accused and ensure that he faces the consequences under the law.

Education Minister Nara Lokesh and Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha also condemned the incident and called for strict action.

Attempt to Murder Case Registered

Police registered a case under attempt-to-murder provisions and launched an investigation into the attack.

Investigators are examining how the accused entered the school premises carrying a dangerous power tool and reached the classroom while classes were underway.

The incident has also raised questions about security arrangements at government schools and the need for stronger measures to protect students during school hours.

School Safety Becomes a Major Concern

Educational institutions are expected to provide a safe environment where children can study without fear.

The attack at Raptadu has once again highlighted the importance of school security, visitor verification, proper access control and immediate emergency response systems.

Parents and the public are seeking stronger measures to ensure that no unauthorised person can enter school premises carrying dangerous equipment.

The investigation is continuing, while the immediate priority remains Gopika's recovery and the treatment of the injured students.

By News National Editorial Team