Tragedy Strikes: Jharkhand Student Dies After Alleged Assault by School Principal

A cloud of profound grief and outrage has descended upon Jharkhand following the tragic demise of a 12-year-old student, Isaac Purty, a month after he was allegedly brutally assaulted by his school principal. The heart-wrenching incident, which has sparked widespread condemnation, unfolded at Don Bosco School in Latehar, where the principal, Father Nirmal Indwar, is accused of inflicting severe injuries upon the young boy for failing to complete his homework.

The alleged assault occurred on May 11, 2024, when Isaac, a Class 7 student, was reportedly subjected to a horrifying ordeal.

His family claims that the principal beat him relentlessly with a stick, kicked him in the stomach, and twisted his ear, leaving the child in immense pain and distress. In the days following the incident, Isaac's condition rapidly deteriorated. He complained of severe abdominal pain and stomach issues, prompting his family to seek urgent medical attention.

Despite being rushed to various hospitals, including those in Ranchi and Vellore, Isaac's health continued to decline.

The family struggled desperately to save their son, hoping for a recovery that tragically never came. A month after the alleged beating, on June 12, 2024, Isaac Purty succumbed to his injuries, leaving his family and community devastated. Preliminary medical assessments pointed to grave internal complications, with the family suspecting peritonitis as a direct consequence of the physical trauma.

The shocking death has ignited a fervent demand for justice.

Acting swiftly on the family’s complaint, authorities registered a First Information Report (FIR) against Father Nirmal Indwar. The charges are severe, including Section 302 (murder) and Section 34 (common intention) of the Indian Penal Code. The principal was subsequently arrested and has been sent to judicial custody, awaiting further legal proceedings.

Isaac's family, still reeling from their devastating loss, has not only called for stringent punishment for the principal but also urged a thorough investigation into potential medical negligence during his treatment.

The incident has resonated deeply across the state, with tribal organizations and civil society groups protesting vehemently, demanding accountability and an end to corporal punishment in schools. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for a safe and nurturing educational environment, where the well-being and safety of every child are paramount.