What Happened When a Teen Attacked a Classmate with a Machete in TN's Tirunelveli?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Classroom violence can have serious implications for student safety.
- Immediate medical attention is critical for injuries sustained in school.
- Schools must ensure access to weapons is strictly monitored.
- Conflict resolution programs can help address underlying issues.
- Legal measures will be pursued to address juvenile violence.
Chennai, Sep 25 (NationPress) A violent altercation erupted between two teenage boys when a Class 9 student reportedly assaulted his classmate with a machete at a government-supported higher secondary school near Valliyoor in Tirunelveli district on Thursday.
As per the police report, the conflict stemmed from a dispute the day before between two hostel residents regarding personal comments.
On Wednesday, a 14-year-old boy from Sankarankovil in the adjacent Tenkasi district, who belongs to a Scheduled Caste community, allegedly made derogatory remarks about the father of another student from an intermediate caste.
Teachers and peers intervened to calm the situation at that moment. However, tensions escalated again on Thursday morning when the boy from the intermediate caste reportedly brought a machete to school.
In a shocking turn of events, he attacked the other student, slashing him on the back before being subdued by classmates and staff.
The injured boy sustained a significant cut and was rushed to a local private hospital where he required six stitches to stop the bleeding.
School officials quickly notified the Ervadi Police, who arrived promptly and detained the suspected attacker for questioning.
The weapon used in the incident has been confiscated. Police confirmed that the injured student was discharged after treatment and later brought to the police station for further inquiry as part of the investigation.
This alarming incident has caused distress among parents and educators in the area, raising serious concerns regarding access to weapons and the increasing tendency of students to resort to violence to resolve differences.
Authorities stated they are investigating how the boy was able to bring a machete to school and whether any adults were aware of his intentions.
Officers mentioned that counseling and stringent measures would be implemented to prevent future occurrences in educational institutions.
A case is anticipated to be filed under the pertinent provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act once the inquiry concludes.
Ongoing investigations are being conducted, and the police are coordinating with child welfare officials to determine the next steps.