What Happened to the Class 10 Student Electrocuted by an Illegal Fence in Kerala's Nilambur?
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Synopsis
A Class 10 student tragically lost his life after coming into contact with an illegal electric fence in Nilambur, Kerala. The incident sparked protests, with calls for accountability and safety measures against such dangerous installations. Activists demand immediate action from authorities as the community grapples with the aftermath.
Key Takeaways
- Tragic loss of life: A Class 10 student was electrocuted by an illegal electric fence.
- Community outrage: Protests erupted, demanding accountability from authorities.
- Call for safety: Activists are pushing for stricter regulations regarding illegal traps.
- Investigation underway: Police are looking into the incident and the responsible parties.
- Political accountability: Local politicians are being held accountable for public safety concerns.
Thiruvananthapuram, June 8 (NationPress) Tensions escalated in Nilambur, located in Kerala's Malappuram district after a tragic incident where a Class 10 student lost his life due to an electric shock from an illegal electric fence intended to trap wild boars.
This unfortunate event occurred on Saturday night. Notably, Nilambur is scheduled for a by-election on June 19. The incident led to significant protests by members of the opposition United Democratic Front (UDF), who blocked roads and confronted police forces.
The victim, Ananthu alias Jithu (15), a resident of the Vazhikadavu region near Nilambur, was with three friends by a stream following a football match when he came into contact with the electrified fence.
The fence, reportedly set up by a private landowner, aimed to deter wild boars but was illegally connected to the power grid.
Eyewitnesses stated that all four boys were shocked, but one managed to escape and alert nearby residents.
Local residents rushed to the location, disconnected the power supply, and transported the injured to a hospital. Jithu was pronounced dead on arrival, while two others, identified as Yadhu Krishnan and Sachu, suffered injuries, with Sachu’s condition reported as critical.
Furious over the incident, UDF activists organized a road blockade in Nilambur, resulting in a brief clash with police. Protesters obstructed police vehicles and chanted slogans demanding justice.
The demonstration later shifted to the local police station, where protesters called for the immediate arrest of those accountable and action against the electricity board.
“This isn’t an isolated case. There are illegal electric traps scattered throughout the area. Residents have lodged complaints previously, but no serious measures have been taken,” remarked local inhabitants. Political figures were quick to respond.
UDF candidate Aryadan Shoukath firmly blamed the state government and the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) for their negligence. “The KSEB has displayed alarming indifference to public safety and has tacitly permitted such deadly traps. If stringent measures are not taken, we will escalate our protests,” he cautioned.
LDF candidate and CPI(M) leader M. Swaraj termed the incident “deeply unfortunate” and called for a comprehensive investigation to ensure accountability.
The police have filed a case and commenced an inquiry into the source of the electric connection and the individual who installed the trap. The district administration has pledged that strict action will be enforced against those found culpable.
Point of View
It is our responsibility to shed light on the systemic failures that lead to such tragic incidents. This case exemplifies the urgent need for stricter enforcement of safety regulations and accountability to protect our communities. It is imperative that both authorities and citizens unite in ensuring public safety and preventing such calamities in the future.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the electrocution of the student?
The student was electrocuted by a live wire from an illegal electric fence set up by a private landowner to deter wild boars.
What actions were taken by the local residents?
Local residents rushed to the scene, disconnected the power supply, and transported the injured to the hospital.
What was the response of the UDF activists?
UDF activists staged protests, blocking roads and demanding justice, as well as immediate action against those responsible.
What is being done about the illegal electric fence?
The police have initiated an inquiry into the source of the electric connection and the individual responsible for installing the trap.
How are local leaders responding to this incident?
Local leaders are calling for thorough investigations and accountability, with some blaming negligence on the part of the government and electricity board.
