Incident Overview
A Class X student from Government High School, Thengode, near Kakkanad, Kochi, was allegedly ragged by fellow students on February 3, 2025. The victim was reportedly exposed to velvet bean powder, known for causing severe itching, leading to significant distress.
Complaint and Police Action
The student’s mother filed a complaint with the Infopark Police on February 17, 2025, accusing the teachers of failing to act against the accused students. Based on this, the police:
- Registered an FIR on March 2, 2025.
- Charged five students under the Juvenile Justice Act.
- Filed cases against two teachers under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
School's Initial Stand
At first, the school management described the incident as accidental, suggesting that the powder exposure was not an intentional act of harassment.
Government Inquiry and Disciplinary Action
The Kerala Education Department conducted a formal inquiry, leading to:
- Suspension of three teachers for negligence.
- Transfer of one teacher to another school.
Current Situation
All students involved, including the victim and the accused, are currently appearing for their SSLC board exams.
Government's Response
In response, Kerala’s Higher Education Minister announced plans to introduce a state-level anti-ragging system to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Conclusion
This case highlights the importance of strict anti-ragging measures and accountability in educational institutions. Schools must take proactive steps to ensure student safety and prevent such incidents from recurring.
