13 June 2024 Criminal Trial >> Criminal Law   |   Juvenile Justice >> Miscellaneous  

Two teachers in Kollam, India, will face trial for allegedly abetting the suicide of a student, Gauri Nekha. The teachers' petition for discharge was dismissed by the court, citing sufficient evidence to proceed.

The case stems from an incident in 2017 where Gauri's younger sister, Meera, allegedly faced harassment from the accused teachers. The prosecution claims Meera was subjected to humiliation and forced to sit between boys in class. After the parents intervened, Gauri was reportedly assigned to keep an eye on Meera. However, the prosecution further alleges that the accused teachers then threatened Gauri with holding back her internal marks. Following this incident, Gauri tragically committed suicide by jumping from the third floor of the school building.

The teachers, in their defense, claimed their actions were solely meant to discipline the students. They denied any instigation or encouragement for Gauri to take her own life.

The court, however, found enough prima facie evidence to suggest otherwise. The judge noted the alleged animosity between Gauri and the teachers, culminating in the threat regarding internal marks. This, according to the court, could have played a role in Gauri's decision.

The court order dismissed the teachers' petition for discharge, allowing the case to proceed under Section 305 of the Indian Penal Code (abetment of suicide of a minor) read with Section 34 (common intention), and Section 75 of the Juvenile Justice Act. The trial court has been directed to expedite the proceedings and complete the trial within six months.

This case highlights the seriousness of abetment of suicide, particularly when it involves minors. It emphasizes the need for educators to maintain a professional and balanced approach to discipline while ensuring the well-being of their students.

Juvenile Justice Act, 1986