KOLLAM, Kerala – Kerala’s Minister for Education, V. Sivankutty, has announced immediate action following the tragic death of an eighth-grade student due to electrocution at Thevalakkara School in Kollam. The minister stated that an explanation would be sought from the Assistant Educational Officer (AEO) in charge of the school, Antony Peter, who was overseeing operations as the District Educational Officer (DEO) for Kollam had retired when the school reopened.
Minister Sivankutty further declared that a notice would be issued to the school management, demanding a reason why action should not be taken against them. He also emphasized that the headmistress should be immediately suspended, warning that if the management fails to do so, the government will intervene.
The minister assured that the government would provide urgent financial assistance to the victim’s family. The Public Education Department, through its Scout and Guides initiative, will facilitate the construction of a new house for the family. Additionally, examination fees for the younger sibling will be waived until Plus Two. As immediate aid, the family will receive Rs 3 lakh.
Sivankutty also called for the immediate reorganization of the school’s Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) and stated that he has requested the Minister for Local Self-Government to provide their stance on the matter.
The tragic incident occurred when Midhun Manu (13), son of Manu and Suja of Manu Bhavan in Padinjare Kallada, a Class 8 student at Thevalakkara Boys High School, climbed onto the bicycle shed to retrieve a slipper and was electrocuted. A preliminary investigation report by the Electricity Department has already pointed to lapses by the school management committee. The report indicated that the required safe distance from the ground to the power lines was not maintained, nor was the safety distance to the bicycle shed.
Midhun’s funeral will take place tomorrow, after his mother, Suja, arrives from Kuwait, where she was working as a domestic helper. Suja was reportedly on a recreational trip to Turkey with the family she worked for when the incident occurred.
