SARIMUL LASKAR, SILCHAR: In a deeply disturbing incident that has sparked massive outrage among parents in Silchar, a Class(v) student of the prestigious Holy Cross Higher Secondary School (HCHSS) on Sonai Road was brutally beaten by a classmate, only to face further humiliation along with his parents when they demanded justice.
The incident took place last Saturday during the school’s short break. The young boy returned home with clear injury marks on his face after being mercilessly assaulted by another student of the same class. When the parents informed the class teacher about the matter, she allegedly refused to take any action and claimed she did not even know the name of the accused student. Even after the parents sent photographs of the injuries to the Principal via WhatsApp, no investigation or steps were taken, they alleged.
When the parents went to speak directly with the school authorities, the situation turned worse. They were called into the Principal’s office where the class teacher allegedly insulted the child in his own presence, saying, “It is very unfortunate to have a student like you in my class.” Principal Sister Teresa Martis reportedly smiled at the comment. The Principal then allegedly told the boy directly, “Your future is dark, and your parents trust you blindly like fools.”
When the parents insisted on a proper investigation into the beating incident, the school authorities allegedly became aggressive and threatened them saying, “If you raise questions, we will issue a Transfer Certificate (TC). You have no right to speak against the school.”
After the complaint was lodged, the victim student was allegedly forced to stand outside the class for 45 minutes. Later, Principal Sister Teresa Martis reportedly sent a strongly worded threatening message in the parents’ WhatsApp group which read:
“Some mothers are defaming the school by sharing videos. I have noted down everyone’s names.If the school takes strict action, you will realise how much damage you have caused. Mind your own life and stop interfering in others’ matters.”
In a fresh development on Wednesday (May 22), the victim student’s class section has been changed. Parents have raised questions whether this move is a direct fallout of their complaint.
The victim’s mother expressed her anguish saying, “We have no intention of defaming the school. But when my child is beaten up, should I not ask about his safety? Is it not the duty of a parent to raise questions about their child’s security? Humiliating a small child in front of his parents and telling him that his future is dark — what kind of educational institution does this?”
The parents have already submitted written complaints to the Inspector of Schools, Cachar, and later to the Deputy Commissioner of Cachar district. All eyes are now on the action that will be taken by the District Administration.
Many parents feel this is not an isolated case. They allege that private schools collect huge re-admission fees every year but threaten parents with TC the moment they raise concerns about their child’s safety or teacher conduct. This has led to serious accusations that education is being converted into a pure business.
No response has been received from the Holy Cross School authorities till now.
Parents have strongly demanded strict government intervention to stop student harassment, misbehaviour with guardians, and TC threats in private schools. They have also urged the district administration and education department to ensure no further harm comes to the victim child and to conduct a proper inquiry against the school management.
