Rapthadu Attack Survivor Gopika Shows Improvement, Accused Loses Right Leg

Gopika, the Class 10 student who suffered critical injuries in the Rapthadu school attack, is gradually recovering, with doctors removing her ventilator support at Manipal Hospital in Bengaluru. She has started responding to doctors and speaking a few words when prompted. State Health Minister Satyakumar Yadav said her condition was stable and that the medical team was cautiously reducing her high-flow oxygen support.

The incident occurred on October 31 at the Zilla Parishad High School in Rapthadu, Anantapur district, when 21-year-old Hemanth alias Dummu, reportedly a relative of the student, allegedly entered her classroom carrying a chainsaw and attacked her. Another student, Lakshmi, sustained injuries while attempting to protect Gopika. Preliminary police investigations suggest that the attack followed Gopika's rejection of Hemanth's advances, although the motive remains subject to investigation.

Gopika suffered severe injuries to her face, neck, cheeks, shoulders and back. Doctors discovered fractures in both shoulder blades, damage to several nerves and tissues, and a severed maxillary artery. A specialist team performed extensive orthopaedic and plastic surgeries lasting nearly 10 hours. Although the major procedures have been completed, doctors anticipate that she may require additional surgeries. She is receiving nutrition through a nasal feeding tube, blood transfusions, antibiotics and physiotherapy to improve limb movement and respiratory function. Her recovery is expected to require prolonged medical supervision.

Meanwhile, police arrested Hemanth on November 1 following an operation near the Atmakur forest area. Anantapur Superintendent of Police P. Jagadeesh said approximately 15 special police teams were deployed to trace him. During the arrest operation, Hemanth allegedly attacked police personnel with a knife, injuring a Circle Inspector. Police subsequently opened fire, discharging six rounds.

Hemanth was shifted to Anantapur Government General Hospital, where doctors amputated his right leg above the knee after the bullet injuries severely damaged blood circulation. His left leg also sustained vascular injuries and required surgery. Hospital Superintendent D. Mallishwari said his condition was stable, although further medical assessments were being conducted.

Lakshmi, who is undergoing treatment at Anantapur Government General Hospital, has received appreciation for her courage. Education Minister Nara Lokesh praised her efforts to save Gopika, and reports indicated that she had been recommended for a national bravery award. YSR Congress Party president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy also spoke to her, assuring that the party would meet her medical expenses and support her family.