Delhi School Student Suicide: Parents to hold candle march against ‘pressure, humiliation’ tomorrow

To demand justice for Class 10 school student who died by suicide over alleged harassment, parents will be organising a candle march at 6 pm tomorrow, November 22. The protestors will march from Maharashtra Sadan towards India gate.

The parents are organising a "peaceful" candle march tomorrow to demand justice for the deceased student Shourya Patil and to stand against the pressure and humiliation that no student should ever face, Careers360 has been told.

“This is the moment to come together as a community. This is the moment to raise our voice for truth and justice. Your presence matters. Your voice matters. Together, we will fight for justice. Please join and encourage others to join,” read the message received by Careers360.

Earlier today, families and friends staged a protest outside St Columba's School, accusing some teachers of mentally harassing the victim and demanding strict action from the authorities. The protestors sought accountability from the school and urged the government to strengthen mental health safety guidelines for students.

Also read CBSE notice to Jaipur school after Class 4 student's death; parents allege 1.5 years of ignored complaints

Family wants arrest of school staff

A family friend of the deceased student's parents said that the protesters want more than just suspension and a strict action against the teachers and school management. They raised slogans demanding the arrest of the accused persons. The parents want the government committee to frame district-level guidelines on mental health of students.

Four school staff including two teachers were suspended following the First Information Report (FIR) registered by police against them in connection with the student suicide. Moreover, the Delhi government has set up a committee to investigate the incident and review how school is handling the case.

Fellow students and parents also staged a protest in front of the private school on Thursday. The student jumped from the Rajendra Place metro station in the afternoon and left behind a suicide note, naming the teachers who allegedly tortured him.

(with inputs from PTI)

If you know someone – friend or family member – at risk of suicide, please reach out to them. Those in distress or having suicidal thoughts or tendencies could seek help and counselling by calling 9820466726 or visiting AASRA’s official website or can call iCALL on 9152987821. Here are some more helpline numbers of suicide prevention organisations that can offer emotional support to individuals and families.