Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Nov 20: A tragic case of alleged harassment within a Delhi school has come to light after 16-year-old Shourya Patil, a Class 10 student of St Columba’s School, died by suicide earlier this week. His family has claimed that the teenager had been subjected to humiliation, intimidation and public rebuke by teachers for almost a year, ultimately pushing him to take the extreme step.

According to the FIR, Shourya allegedly jumped from Platform 2 of Rajendra Place Metro Station on Tuesday. A handwritten note found in his school bag blamed three teachers, stating that he was forced into the decision due to “repeated harassment”.

His father, Pradeep Patil, speaking before leaving for their hometown in Sangli for the cremation, said the boy had repeatedly complained about being mocked and mistreated. He alleged that teachers dismissed his concerns whenever approached, attributing his struggles to “poor focus” and “weak Math grades”.

Pradeep claimed that matters worsened recently when the school threatened to issue a Transfer Certificate after he raised objections. On the day of the incident, Shourya reportedly fell during a dance practice. Instead of assisting him, teachers allegedly accused him of “doing drama” and removed him from the performance.

“One of the teachers told him, ‘Cry as much as you want, it doesn’t matter to me.’ The principal was present but did nothing,” Pradeep said. He also alleged that his son had been threatened for four consecutive days and pushed by a teacher earlier on another occasion.

Shourya normally travelled home in a school van, but that day he reportedly left the campus through the back gate and made his way to the metro station.

In his note, the teenager apologised to his parents and brother, expressing regret for “breaking their hearts”. He wrote that his last wish was for action to be taken against the teachers, adding that he did not want “any other child” to face the same fate. He also expressed the desire for his organs to be donated if found suitable.

The school has not issued a formal statement on the allegations at the time of filing this report.

Anyone coping with distress or aware of someone who needs help is urged to contact mental health support services immediately.

Helplines:
Vandrevala Foundation: 9999666555 / help@vandrevalafoundation.com
TISS iCall: 022-25521111 (Mon–Sat, 8 am–10 pm)