Delhi Class 10 Student's Suicide: Probe Widens as School Staff Face Allegations of Harassment

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A Class 10 student from Delhi's St Columba's School has died by suicide, prompting an investigation into allegations of harassment by school staff. According to friends of the deceased, the 16-year-old was repeatedly targeted and humiliated by three teachers and the headmistress over the last four days. Investigations have revealed that the boy's friends presented a uniform narrative of being intimidated and humiliated by the staff members in question. Some incidents have been corroborated by CCTV footage, including one recording where a teacher is seen humiliating the boy in front of other students. The school has suspended the four staff members, who have been booked under sections 107 (abetment to suicide) and 3(5) (common intention) of the BNS. Police have retrieved CCTV footage from November 11 to 18 and plan to summon the staff members for questioning this weekend. Early accounts suggest a pattern of persistent scolding and disproportionate punishment directed at the boy and his friends, raising concerns about the school's handling of the situation. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken cognizance of the case and demanded an action report from the authorities. The incident has sparked concerns about the mental health and well-being of students in the school. The National Human Rights Commission has cited violations of the Juvenile Justice Act, the Right to Education Act, and child safety norms. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the following helplines: Sumaitri (Delhi-based) 011-23389090 or Sneha Foundation (Chennai-based) 044-24640050.