Daijiworld Media Network – Kolkata

Kolkata, May 23: In a deeply disturbing incident that has sent shockwaves across West Bengal, a 12-year-old boy from Panskura in Paschim Medinipur district allegedly ended his life after being publicly humiliated over a packet of chips he was accused of stealing. The minor, a Class 7 student named Krishnendu Das, reportedly consumed pesticide on Thursday evening following the traumatic episode, leaving behind a suicide note addressed to his mother.

According to police sources and the boy’s family, Krishnendu had gone to a shop at Gosaiber Bazar to buy a packet of chips. Finding the shop unattended, the boy allegedly called out for the shopkeeper repeatedly. Receiving no response and spotting a packet of chips lying near the shop, he picked it up and began walking away—intending, as he later wrote, to pay once the shopkeeper returned.

However, soon after, the shopkeeper—identified as Subhankar Dikshit, a civic volunteer affiliated with Bengal Police—returned and allegedly chased Krishnendu down. He reportedly slapped the boy and forced him to perform sit-ups in public, accusing him of theft.

The matter escalated when Krishnendu’s mother was called to the spot. Despite her son's desperate pleas and explanation, she too scolded and slapped him in front of the gathering crowd, according to the family's complaint.

Back home, the humiliated and heartbroken child locked himself in his room. A short while later, neighbours and family members broke open the door to find him unconscious, frothing at the mouth, with a half-empty bottle of pesticide by his side. He was rushed to Tamluk Hospital and admitted to the ICU, but tragically succumbed soon after.

A handwritten note found beside him, reportedly penned in Bengali, read:

"Maa, I am not a thief. I did not steal. Uncle was not there. I waited. While returning, I saw a Kurkure packet lying on the road and picked it up. I love Kurkure."

The note continued:

"These are my final words before leaving. Please excuse me for this act (consuming pesticide)."

The incident has sparked widespread outrage in the locality. The shopkeeper, who initially denied the assault, has since gone into hiding. His shop remains shut as angry residents gathered outside demanding justice for the boy.

Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation into the matter. Locals and child rights activists have called for strict action against those responsible for the child’s public shaming and resultant death.

This tragic incident serves as a grim reminder of the emotional trauma public humiliation can inflict on children and the importance of handling such situations with compassion and sensitivity.