Rayagada, Aug 6: Authorities at Rivalakana High School in the Kolnara block of Rayagada district have expelled seven Class X students for their alleged involvement in a serious ragging and assault incident targeting junior hostel boarders.

The disciplinary action came after a video purportedly showing the assault went viral on social media, triggering widespread outrage among parents and local residents.

On Wednesday, more than 100 parents staged a protest outside the school, demanding the immediate transfer of the headmaster and strict action against the students involved. The demonstration created a tense situation before officials intervened to restore order.

Police from Chandili Police Station, led by officer Uttam Kumar Sahu, along with District Welfare Officer Asima Rao and other administrative officials, reached the school and held discussions with the agitating parents, eventually bringing the situation under control.

Earlier, the school administration had expelled one student and lodged a police complaint against six others. According to reports, the seven accused students fled to the nearby hills following the incident but later returned after tensions subsided.

Preliminary inquiries suggest the violence erupted after a group of Class IX students complained to teachers about the alleged misconduct of a Class X student and his associates. After the accused students were reportedly reprimanded by a teacher, they allegedly retaliated by attacking junior students residing in the hostel.

Authorities have initiated an investigation into the incident, while school officials have assured parents that necessary steps will be taken to ensure the safety and well-being of hostel students and prevent similar incidents in the future.