600 Students Leave Maharashtra Tribal Hostel
Nearly 600 tribal students left a government-run residential school hostel in Maharashtra’s Amravati district after rumours spread that several girls were “possessed” following episodes of unusual behaviour. Health officials, however, suspect the incidents were linked to psychological stress rather than any supernatural cause.
Maharashtra Tribal Hostel Sees Student Exodus
The incident began at the Doma residential school in Chikhaldara taluka in the Melghat region after four girls reportedly began crying and laughing uncontrollably.
Rumours subsequently spread among students that the girls were possessed and that the hostel was haunted. Some students also claimed to have heard unexplained sounds, further increasing anxiety on the campus.
The residential school accommodates around 810 boys and girls. Nearly 600 students reportedly left the hostel over several days as fear spread among students and their families.
Officials Link Behaviour to Mental Stress
Health experts visited the school and examined the situation after the unusual behaviour was reported.
Officials said the symptoms appeared consistent with a stress-related psychological episode rather than any supernatural phenomenon. Preliminary assessments pointed to a combination of fear, anxiety, superstition and local beliefs as possible factors behind the reaction among students.
Authorities have sought to prevent misinformation and rumours from worsening the situation.
Counselling Begins at Amravati Tribal School
Counselling sessions have been organised for students as officials work to restore confidence among children and their families.
Awareness efforts have also focused on encouraging students to approach the incident scientifically and avoid spreading unverified claims about possession or paranormal activity.
Authorities said some students have started returning to the residential school, while counselling and outreach efforts are continuing.
