A self-defence event intended to empower students in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kupwara district took an alarming turn when more than a dozen students ended up in the hospital. The incident unfolded during a self-defence workshop held at the Government Girls Higher Secondary School in the Handwara area.
According to officials, the unexpected chaos was sparked when one of the students deployed pepper spray during the self-defence exercise, leading to 13 female students falling unconscious. Prompt action was taken, and the affected students were immediately transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Dr. Aijaz Ahmad, Deputy Superintendent of Associate Hospital GMC Handwara, reassured the concerned public that the situation is under control. He confirmed that 13 students had been brought to the hospital but emphasized that their conditions have since stabilized after receiving medical attention. Dr. Ahmad explained that the students’ reaction to the pepper spray was the cause of their brief unconsciousness and urged that there is no need for undue concern.
The self-defence workshop was intended to equip students with valuable skills to protect themselves and build their confidence. However, the unexpected deployment of pepper spray led to an unintentional disruption in what was meant to be an empowering and educational event.
Despite the incident, the medical response ensured that the affected students received the necessary care, and they are now in stable condition. The event serves as a reminder of the need for careful supervision and adherence to safety protocols during such workshops to prevent unexpected mishaps and ensure the well-being of all participants.
Sources By Agencies
