ITANAGAR: The death of a 12-year-old student on school premises in Arunachal’s Papum Pare district has raised concerns about ragging in school premises.
The deceased, identified as Nabam Esther, was a Class 6 student of Rising Star International School in Emchi.
The circumstances surrounding Esther’s death have sparked serious allegations from her guardian, Dr Chera Apung, claiming it to be a murder and has named two other 12-year-old girls as suspects.
Responding to the complaints, the Doimukh Police Station has detained the suspected girls for further investigation, while the principal and hostel warden too have been taken into custody.
According to Dr Apung, she received a distressing call from school authorities, initially stating that the child was found unconscious after an alleged fall during playtime.
However, upon further investigation, it was revealed that Esther succumbed to her injuries on the way to the hospital.
Expressing urgency, Dr Apung has demanded the immediate arrest of the suspects and swift legal action.
The incident has sparked concerned from parents about prevalence of ragging within the school premises. Reportedly, there have been instances of ragging within the school premises in the past.
Despite assurances from the school administration, Esther’s death has reignited concerns about safety measures within the institution.
Reacting to the incident, All Papum Pare District Students’ Union president Gollo Lento, while expressing grief over the untimely demise, has urged for a prompt resolution of the case.
Lento highlighted the need for stringent monitoring of both private and government-run schools to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Parents of the deceased have echoed these concerns, citing negligence on the part of the school authorities.
They lamented the absence of adequate surveillance measures such as CCTV and qualified staff, despite substantial fees charged by the school.
Amidst growing calls for justice, members of the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights have intervened, taking suo moto cognizance of the case and offering support to the bereaved family.
