Tragedy Unfolds: Students, Parents Protest Harassment Allegations at Delhi School | India News
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A somber scene unfolded outside St. Columba's School in New Delhi on Friday as nearly 100 parents, students, and family friends gathered to demand accountability for the alleged harassment of a 16-year-old student who took his life earlier this week. The tragedy occurred on Tuesday when the Class 10 student jumped from the upper level of a west Delhi Metro station, leaving behind a note accusing four school staff members of sustained harassment. A case of abetment to suicide has been registered by the police. At the protest, several students and parents shared harrowing accounts of being humiliated and intimidated by the same three teachers and the headmistress named in the police complaint. They described a 'pattern of harassment' where students were singled out for minor mistakes, threatened with physical punishment, and mocked in front of their peers. A close friend of the deceased student recalled the frantic efforts to find him on Tuesday, saying, 'We kept looking for him for almost an hour around the school. Later, we were told to go back, and then we heard the aunty crying in the background.' Another friend shared that all four of them had been 'picked on' by the accused teachers, adding, 'We were constantly troubled, scolded, humiliated.' Parents also came forward to share their own experiences of being targeted by the same teachers. A mother recounted how her son was humiliated for months for not paying fees, while another parent described how students were made to sit inside classrooms without bathroom breaks due to fear of media attention. The students, who joined the protest with their faces covered, expressed fear of disciplinary action if they spoke to the media. A Class 9 student said, 'We've been warned that disciplinary action will be taken if we talk or protest.' The incident has raised concerns about the school's handling of bullying and harassment cases. The students and parents demand justice and accountability for the alleged actions of the school staff. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the following helpline numbers: - Sumaitri (Delhi-based): 011-23389090 - Sneha Foundation (Chennai-based): 044-24640050 These helplines are available to provide support and guidance. Let's work together to create a safer and more supportive environment for our children.
