Three government schoolteachers were arrested in connection with an incident involving a 13-year-old girl at the Panchayat Union Middle School in Bargur, Krishnagiri district, Tamil Nadu, on February 4, 2025.
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The alleged incident came to light after the girl had been absent from school for an extended period. Teachers visited her home on February 2, 2025, to inquire about her absence, which led to the disclosure of the incident. According to the School Education Department, the accused teachers were named in a complaint filed by the school headmistress and the block education officer.
Teachers Visit the Girl’s Home to Investigate Absence
The girl had stopped attending school in January, prompting teachers to visit her home. During the visit, she initially explained that she was suffering from ulcers and would return to school soon. However, during a second visit by school authorities on February 2, the girl revealed that three teachers had been involved in the incident on the school campus in the first week of January.
All Three Accused Teachers Suspended, Deny Allegations
Following the revelation, the three accused teachers were suspended pending further investigation. In a preliminary internal inquiry, no other complaints were found against the accused. The teachers have denied the allegations. The school authorities and the police are continuing their investigations into the matter.
Public Protests and Outcry
After the news of the incident spread, a group of villagers staged a road blockade outside the school, demanding immediate action against the accused teachers. This case adds to growing concerns over the safety of students, as it follows a similar incident in the area last year involving a private school during a fake NCC camp.
Political Leaders Condemn the Incident
Political leaders across the state have expressed shock and outrage over the incident. AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami criticized the government for not addressing the safety of students in educational institutions. He questioned the state’s handling of such incidents and stressed the importance of student protection. AMMK General Secretary T.T.V. Dhinakaran and BJP State President K. Annamalai also condemned the event, raising concerns about safety in Tamil Nadu.
Police Investigation Underway
Superintendent of Police P. Thangadurai confirmed that the police had received a formal complaint from the school headmistress. In response, the police, in collaboration with the Child Welfare Committee, visited the girl at her home. She was subsequently taken to a One-Stop Centre at the Krishnagiri Government Medical College Hospital for support. Authorities stated that the incident occurred between January 1 and 3.
The three accused teachers have been arrested and are currently in police custody. The police have initiated an inquiry, and further investigations are ongoing.
Support and Assistance for the Survivor
The District Child Protection Unit has also visited the girl and her family. A report will be submitted to the Collector for further action. District Child Protection Officer Saravanan and District ChildLine Officer Prasanna Kumari have confirmed that no distress calls were made to ChildLine regarding this incident.
This case highlights the ongoing need for stricter measures to ensure the safety and well-being of students in educational institutions across the region.
