In Palakkad, Kerala, 14-year-old Arjun, a class 9 student of Kannadi Higher Secondary School, tragically ended his life after allegedly facing mental harassment from his class teacher, Asha. Following an Instagram chat controversy, the teacher reportedly threatened Arjun and other students with cybercrime charges, causing him extreme distress.
Student protests led to the suspension of both the teacher and headmistress, Lissy, pending investigation. Kerala’s Education Minister has ordered a detailed inquiry, and the school remains closed for four days amid ongoing protests and police investigations.
Instagram Controversy and ‘Mental Harassment’
The incident began when Arjun and other students sent offensive language in Instagram messages, which came to the school’s notice through a parent. The class teacher confronted the students and allegedly warned them of a cyber cell complaint and potential jail time of 1.5 years.
Students and family allege that the teacher also physically assaulted Arjun, further worsening his mental health. The family claims these threats and humiliations led to Arjun’s suicide, found hanging at his home in his school uniform. The school management denies harassment, stating the teacher only warned the students about the dangers of irresponsible social media use.
Background, Investigation, and Public Outcry
Arjun’s family reportedly tried to resolve the Instagram dispute with the school but allege the teacher continued to humiliate and physically punish him. The family has filed a formal complaint against the teacher. Police have registered a case of unnatural death under the BNSS and are recording statements.
The school’s headmistress and class teacher have been suspended for 20 days as authorities investigate. The Education Minister, V. Sivankutty, has ordered a thorough probe by district officials. Students and local groups have protested, demanding justice and better safeguards to prevent such tragedies.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This devastating incident underscores the delicate role educators play and the critical need for nurturing communication that balances discipline with compassion.
The Logical Indian believes in fostering safe, supportive environments where students feel valued and problems like mental distress are addressed with empathy and care. Schools must prioritise mental health awareness alongside discipline to prevent tragic outcomes.
