At least seven children were killed and 26 others injured on Friday when part of a government-run school building collapsed in Rajasthan’s Jhalawar district, authorities confirmed.

The tragic incident occurred during morning classes at the school, located approximately 322 kilometers from the state capital, Jaipur. According to police reports, the roof and portions of the wall of the single-storey structure gave way while pupils were inside.

“There were around 60 students, teachers, and staff in the building when the collapse occurred,” said Nand Kishore, a local police official. “Seven children have lost their lives so far, and 26 others are injured. Rescue efforts began immediately with the help of local villagers.”

Television footage from the scene showed heavy machinery clearing debris, while emergency responders and community members assisted in rescue operations. Two of the injured students are reported to be in critical condition.

Local media reports indicate that the school building had long been in a state of disrepair. Several complaints had reportedly been lodged about the structure’s condition in recent months. Witnesses said recent heavy rains may have further weakened the already compromised infrastructure.

The victims, according to preliminary reports, were between the ages of eight and eleven.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences in a statement posted via his official social media account.

“Deeply saddened by the tragic school building collapse in Rajasthan. My thoughts are with the affected students and their families. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. Authorities are providing all possible assistance.”

Rajasthan’s State Education Minister, Madan Dilawar, described the incident as “very unfortunate” and ordered a high-level investigation into its cause.

“I will get a high-level inquiry done today to find out why this incident happened,” Dilawar said. He also confirmed that the government is overseeing the treatment of the injured children.

India’s government school system, particularly in rural areas, continues to face widespread criticism for chronic underfunding, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of essential amenities. While urban schools have seen modest improvements in recent years, many rural institutions remain in dire conditions, with students often attending classes in crumbling buildings.

This latest tragedy has reignited calls for urgent government action to address infrastructure deficiencies in the public education sector.