Assam: 14-Year-Old Student Dies After Alleged Assault by Teacher in Dhekiajuli

A CORRESPONDENT

DHEKIAJULI: A tragic incident at New Horizon English School in Sirajuli has sent shockwaves across the Dhekiajuli Co-District following allegations that a 7th standard student, Aman Mahato (14 years), died due to a brutal assault by his teacher Uttam Boski Mahanta. The incident has sparked widespread protests and demands for justice.

According to sources, the ordeal began on January 17 when Aman and a classmate reportedly got into a scuffle during a class period. Teacher Uttam Boski Mahanta allegedly intervened and physically assaulted both the students, leaving Aman with severe injuries to his head, neck, and body. While Aman managed to return home that day, but his health deteriorated over the following days. After initial treatment at a local clinic, he was admitted to Tezpur Medical College and Hospital in Tumuki on January 22 in a critical condition. Tragically, Aman passed away en route to a private hospital where he was being taken as his condition worsened at Tezpur Medical College and Hospital.

The grieving family has accused the teacher of inflicting fatal injuries on Aman. However, the school authorities have downplayed the incident. The school principal claimed that the teacher only reprimanded the students lightly and noted that Aman had attended a picnic with friends the next day, seemingly in good health.

The incident has ignited public outrage, with local organizations such as the Bhojpuri Student Union, AJYCP, NEMSU, AASAA, AASU, Bengali Federation, AMSU, and Rabha Student Association demanding immediate action. A memorandum was submitted to the Dhekiajuli Circle Officer, calling for a thorough investigation and punishment for the accused teacher and financial compensation for the bereaved family.

Protests escalated when Aman's post-mortem report was released. Agitated locals blocked National Highway 15, demanding swift justice and accountability from the school authorities. The blockade was lifted only after discussions with the Circle Officer, who assured a proper investigation. Protesters have demanded Rs 50 lakh in compensation and a government job for Aman's family, reiterating these demands through a second memorandum.

Later that day, Aman was laid to rest at Sirajuli's public crematorium amid a somber atmosphere. The Mahato family, who live below the poverty line in Maylali village, are devastated by the loss. Aman's father Tribhuvan Mahato described the incident as a case of inhumane punishment leading to his son's untimely demise.

In a significant development, the accused teacher, Uttam Boski Mahanta, who was initially in hiding, surrendered at the Dhekiajuli Police Station late last night. He was taken into custody and has since been remanded to judicial custody. The police have assured the public of a swift and thorough investigation.

While the full details await confirmation through post-mortem findings and further inquiries, the incident has left the local community in shock and mourning. Protests and demands for justice are expected to continue as the investigation unfolds.

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