Follow TNM's WhatsApp channel for news updates and story links.
More than a month after the death of 14-year-old Aashir Nanda, a Class 9 student who died by suicide in Palakkad district, the Kerala police have booked the then principal and two teachers of St Dominic’s School in Sreekrishnapuram for allegedly harassing her over poor academic performance.
The accused have been identified as Sister Joicy PO (then school principal), class teacher Stella Babu, and another teacher, Archana. Aashir was found dead in her room on June 23, shortly after returning home from school.
According to the First Information Report (FIR), the three accused verbally abused and humiliated the student in front of her classmates between June 2 and 23, allegedly citing her poor academic performance. The FIR also notes that she was shifted to the “E” division of Class 9 without the consent of her or her parents, which reportedly caused her distress.
Following her death, Aashir’s parents and friends accused the school management of mental harassment. A suicide note was later found by Nattukal police, reportedly naming the teachers involved in the alleged abuse.
All three have been booked under Section 75 of the Juvenile Justice Act, which deals with cruelty towards children.
The police action came only after the recommendation of the Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights. The Commission on July 28, submitted a report criticising the police for delayed action. The Commission’s report mentioned that the police had not taken a timely decision.“The Commission observes that in the present case, police officers failed to take timely action. In similar cases involving suicide notes, immediate steps are usually taken. The failure to act urgently in this case is viewed very seriously.”
The Commission recommended that the investigation be completed in a time-bound manner and directed the State Police Chief to ensure legal action against the teachers named in the suicide note. It also asked the Palakkad District police chief and the Station House Officer at Nattukal to take appropriate steps.
The incident triggered protests from students, parents, and local political groups, who alleged that harassment was a recurring issue at the school. In response, the school management dismissed five staff members, including principal Sr Joicy, and teachers Stella, Archana, Ambili, and Thangam. The existing Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) was also dissolved and reconstituted.
If you are aware of anyone facing mental health issues or feeling suicidal, please provide help. Here are some helpline numbers of suicide-prevention organisations that can offer emotional support to individuals and families.
Tamil Nadu
State health department's suicide helpline: 104
Sneha Suicide Prevention Centre - 044-24640050 (listed as the sole suicide prevention helpline in Tamil Nadu)
Andhra Pradesh
Life Suicide Prevention: 78930 78930
Roshni: 9166202000, 9127848584
Karnataka
Sahai (24-hour): 080 65000111, 080 65000222
Kerala
Maithri: 0484 2540530
Chaithram: 0484 2361161
Both are 24-hour helpline numbers.
Telangana
State government's suicide prevention (tollfree): 104
Roshni: 040 66202000, 6620200
SEVA: 09441778290, 040 27504682 (between 9 am and 7 pm
Aasara offers support to individuals and families during an emotional crisis, for those dealing with mental health issues and suicidal ideation, and to those undergoing trauma after the suicide of a loved one.
24x7 Helpline: 9820466726
Click here for working helplines across India.