VISAKHAPATNAM — Authorities in the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh have launched an investigation after a six-year-old boy collapsed and died after allegedly being slapped by a teacher in his classroom.
Security camera footage from the school in Visakhapatnam shows a female teacher holding the child by his clothes before slapping him across the face, after which he collapses.
The boy has been identified by local media as Pranay Tej.
Andhra Pradesh Education and IT Minister Nara Lokesh said authorities were taking legal action against those responsible as well as the school management.
“Corporal punishment has no place in our schools. No child should ever be subjected to violence in the name of discipline,” Lokesh said, adding that he had ordered a full investigation and strict action against anyone found responsible.
The boy’s father told Indian media that his son appeared healthy before leaving for school that morning and had insisted on attending classes.
Relatives gathered at the hospital following his death and demanded action against those responsible.
Police Inspector Pudi Vara Prasad said a case had been registered following a written complaint from the boy’s father and that an investigation was underway.
Police completed an inquest and post-mortem examination before releasing the body to the family.
Authorities have not yet established the exact cause of death.
“Once all relevant reports are received, we will determine the exact cause of death,” Prasad said.
The Andhra Pradesh government has also formed a committee to investigate the incident, with officials saying further action will be taken based on its findings.
The case has triggered renewed debate over corporal punishment in India, where physical punishment in schools is prohibited but continues to be reported.
Source: Saudi Gazette