In the aftermath of Shaurya Patil's tragic suicide, a 10th-grade student from a reputed Delhi school, his family is left in shock. On Tuesday, November 18, Shaurya leapt to his death at Rajendra Nagar Metro Station, leaving behind an emotional suicide note that read, 'Sorry Mom, this is the last time I am breaking your heart.' The incident has sparked debates on the mental health support provided by schools, highlighting the administration's sensitivity and accountability. The Delhi government has swiftly responded by forming a high-level inquiry committee ordered to submit its report within three days.
Originally from Dhevleshwar in Maharashtra's Sangli district, Shaurya’s father, Pradeep Patil, has been involved in the gold and silver trade in Delhi for many years. The family resides in Rajiv Nagar, with Shaurya attending a notable school as a 10th-grade student. Tragically, he took his life by leaping from Platform No. 2 at Rajendra Nagar Metro Station.
Source: aajtak
A backpack found at the scene contained a suicide note where Shaurya explicitly mentioned mental harassment. His note read, 'The school left me no choice... If possible, please donate my organs.' He apologized to his parents while listing heart-wrenching grievances, holding certain teachers accountable for his demise.
Read More: Rising Suicides Among Students: Pressure From Educators and Peer Bullying Highlighted in Recent Cases
The Delhi police have begun their investigation based on Shaurya’s note and his father's complaint, targeting Principal Aparajita Pal, and teachers Manu Kalra, Yukti Mahajan, and Julie Varghese. Pradeep Patil claims his son faced relentless scolding and mental torment, causing severe stress. The police have filed a case and initiated an inquiry.
What Measures Did the Delhi Government Take?
Reacting seriously to the issue, Delhi's Directorate of Education has set up a high-level committee tasked to deliver a detailed investigation report within three days. Members of this committee include Joint Director (Chairman) Harshit Jain, DDE (C/ND) Anil Kumar, DDE (Zone 26) Poonam Yadav, Principals Kapil Kumar Gupta, and Sarita Devi. The committee's responsibility is to explore all facets relating to the incident, evaluate compliance with mental health provisions, determine the school administration's accountability, and provide recommendations for future actions.
Statement from the Education Minister
Delhi’s Education Minister, Ashish Sood, expressed his concerns, stating that letters are being sent to all schools in Delhi to ensure adherence to CBSE’s mental health standards. Support and guidance will be offered where necessary to ensure the mental well-being of the next generation.
He further added that a committee with a three-day deadline will verify adherence to mental health norms. After post-mortem procedures, Shaurya's body was brought back to his native village in Dhevleshwar, Sangli. The entire village mourned his loss during the child’s tearful farewell on Wednesday night.
Source: aajtak
An FIR has been registered based on the complaint and the police have launched an investigation. CCTV footage relating to incidents mentioned has been obtained, particularly two recent incidents, one involving a shove on the shoulder and another involving the school’s reaction during a slipped play practice. Witnesses will be questioned and statements recorded.
The pressing question remains: Are mental health provisions confined to paperwork? Are teachers trained in sensitivity? Can children express their concerns freely? Shaurya's passing has reawakened these critical discussions. The government's high-level committee report will guide the next course of action. Until then, from Delhi to Sangli, the pervasive question looms over why this young life was lost.
