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Palakkad, Oct 16 (IANS) There was a wave of anger and grief in Palakkad after a Class 9 student of Kannadi Higher Secondary School allegedly committed suicide, leading to suspension of two staff members and temporary closure of the school.
State Education Minister V. Sivankutty on Thursday directed district education officials to conduct a detailed investigation into the incident and submit a report.
The 14-year-old student, identified as Arjun from Pallanchathannur, was found dead at his home earlier this week.
His family has accused a class teacher of mental harassment, who allegedly forced him to take the step.
Police have started investigation based on the family’s complaint and the school will remain closed for four days.
After this incident, students, parents and political organizations have started massive protests.
According to the family, the teacher named Asha had threatened Arjun over a message sent on Instagram to lodge a complaint with the cyber cell and send him to jail.
One of his classmates said, “He humiliated him in front of the class and even called the cyber cell during class hours. He was clearly upset after that.”
Soon after the news of the “suicide” broke, students boycotted classes and staged a sit-in on the school premises.
Many student organizations joined the movement and gheraoed the principal’s office demanding immediate action.
The situation escalated when Principal Lisi defended the teacher, saying no wrongdoing had been done, leading to further protests.
Amid mounting pressure, the school management called an emergency meeting and decided to suspend both the class teacher and the principal pending an investigation.
Education officials have sought a detailed report on the incident and arrangements have been made for counseling support for the students.
This tragic incident has reignited the debate over mental health, bullying and accountability in schools.
Police officials said that the statements of the students, staff and the teacher concerned are being recorded.
A case has been registered, further action will be taken based on the investigation.
–IANS
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