St Columba's School Staff Suspended Following Allegations in Student Suicide Case

Four staff members at St Columba's School, including the headmistress, have been suspended amid an investigation into a student's suicide linked to mental harassment allegations. A committee has been formed to review the school's handling of the case.

Four staff members from St Columbas School, including the headmistress, have been suspended following an FIR linked to a class 10 student's alleged suicide. The student accused them of mental harassment. A senior official from the Delhi Education Department stated that a committee has been established to investigate these claims and assess the school's handling of the situation. The committee is expected to deliver its report within three days.

The suspension order affects the headmistress for Classes 4-10, the coordinator for Classes 9 and 10, and two teachers. They are under temporary suspension while the investigation is ongoing. The student's father expressed dissatisfaction with the temporary nature of the suspension and called for the arrest of those named in the FIR. "We need to send a message that no teacher should treat our children like that," he stated.

High-Level Inquiry Committee Formed

The Education Department has formed a High-Level Inquiry Committee to thoroughly examine the incident that occurred on November 18. This committee, composed of senior officers, aims to ascertain all facts, circumstances, and administrative responsibilities related to the case. It will conduct an objective inquiry and submit a detailed report with findings and recommendations within three days of receiving its orders.

The suspension notice sent to each staff member highlighted the gravity of the allegations. It stated, "In view of the seriousness of the allegations, the competent authority has decided to place you under suspension with immediate effect." The staff members will remain suspended until the investigation concludes and further instructions are given by the competent authority.

Investigation Details

The suspended staff have been instructed to stay available for official communication but are prohibited from visiting school premises or interacting with students, staff, or parents without prior written permission from the administration. The class 10 student reportedly aspired to become like Shah Rukh Khan but died after allegedly jumping from Rajendra Place Metro Station at around 2:34 pm on Tuesday.

He was rushed to BLK Super Speciality Hospital, where doctors declared him dead, according to police reports. A senior police officer mentioned that a suicide note was found with the boy, naming several teachers and accusing them of mental harassment. The note also included an apology to his family and a request for organ donation.

The FIR filed at Rajendra Nagar police station includes charges related to abetment of suicide. As part of their investigation, police are recording statements from classmates, teachers, and school authorities. This comprehensive approach aims to uncover all aspects surrounding this tragic event.

With inputs from PTI