Tragedy at St. Columba's: Police Intensify Probe into Student's Suicide Allegations

A profound sense of sorrow, tinged with anger and a desperate plea for justice, has enveloped the community around St. Columba's School in Delhi. The tragic passing of a Class 12 student on May 29, believed to be by suicide, has sparked a deeply troubling investigation that now sees the Delhi Police preparing to question several school staff members.

It's a parent's worst nightmare, and in this heart-wrenching case, the student's parents aren't just grieving; they're alleging a far more sinister chain of events. They claim their son was subjected to relentless harassment and bullying by certain teachers and a school counselor, leading to the unimaginable decision he made.

Responding to these grave accusations, the police have already registered a First Information Report (FIR) under Section 306 of the Indian Penal Code, which pertains to abetment to suicide. This isn't a mere inquiry; it's a formal criminal investigation. And now, the Delhi Police, stepping into this incredibly sensitive situation, are moving forward with their investigation by sending official notices to the four teachers and the counselor specifically named in that FIR. They will be called in for questioning, undoubtedly facing tough inquiries about their interactions with the young man.

But the probe doesn't stop there. Investigators are meticulously piecing together the full picture, which includes scrutinizing CCTV footage from the school premises – hoping to catch glimpses of crucial interactions or any signs of distress. Furthermore, the student's personal phone is being examined, a digital trail that might hold vital clues, perhaps in messages, call logs, or notes, shedding light on his state of mind and the alleged torment he endured.

Initially, the school had somewhat downplayed the parents' serious allegations, suggesting the boy was facing "disciplinary action" for misbehavior. However, as the gravity of the situation became undeniably clear and the police investigation deepened, St. Columba's has since shifted its stance, assuring full cooperation with the authorities. This change of heart, while necessary, certainly raises questions about their initial reaction.

The parents, in their anguish, have painted a detailed picture of their son's ordeal. They assert that the school, rather than addressing their concerns, attempted to brush them aside, even going so far as to suggest they simply transfer their son to another institution. One particularly distressing detail emerged: they claim their son was barred from attending a practical exam, a move that could have profoundly impacted his academic future and, understandably, caused immense emotional distress. Such an incident, they believe, played a significant role in pushing him to the brink.

As the Delhi Police continue their painstaking work, sifting through evidence and testimony, the wider community waits, holding its breath for answers. The hope, of course, is that this thorough investigation will not only uncover the truth behind this devastating loss but also ensure that justice, in its fullest sense, is served for the young student and his grieving family.