A devastating incident in Kerala, India, has shocked the community as a 14-year-old boy, A.J., the son of a UAE expatriate, died by suicide following alleged humiliation by his teacher. The tragedy occurred on October 14, when A.J. was found hanging in his home, dressed in his school uniform. The incident has led to widespread protests, the suspension of two teachers, and an ongoing investigation by the state’s education minister.
A.J.’s suicide came just a day after he was disciplined for using offensive language in an Instagram group chat with classmates. The issue was brought to the school’s attention by a parent on October 13, and the boys involved were reprimanded. However, the matter was not escalated further as the students appeared to acknowledge their mistake.
On the following day, A.J.’s class teacher reportedly addressed the issue in front of the entire class, threatening to file a cybercrime case against him, which could result in a 1.5-year jail sentence. Witnesses claim that A.J. was deeply distressed by the teacher’s public shaming and was found dead later that day. His father, who works in the UAE, returned home for the funeral on October 15.
The incident sparked outrage among students and local student unions, who boycotted classes and staged protests demanding accountability. In response, the school suspended the class teacher and headmistress for 20 days. However, the school principal defended the teacher, stating that she had only warned A.J. about the potential consequences of his actions.
The state’s education minister has ordered a detailed probe into the incident, and a case of unnatural death has been registered. A.J.’s family has filed a separate complaint alleging mental harassment by the teacher, claiming that she had targeted him for months following a previous complaint by his father. Police are currently recording statements from students, staff, and the teacher involved. The school is expected to reopen soon, but the incident has left a lasting impact on the community, raising questions about the treatment of students and the pressures they face.