Thrissur, 01 August (H.S.): A social science teacher at Varavoor Government Higher Secondary School in Thrissur has admitted that he acted wrongly after allegedly assaulting a Class 9 student, an incident that triggered protests by parents and prompted police and official intervention.

The teacher, Manikandan, said the assault was the result of a sudden emotional outburst and acknowledged that he should not have hit the student. He said his anger and distress arose from a feeling that some students were taking advantage of his visual impairment and treating him disrespectfully.

According to Manikandan, the incident occurred while he was conducting a class. He alleged that the student had climbed onto a desk and sat on it without his knowledge because of his limited vision. He became aware of it only when another teacher passing the classroom questioned the student’s behaviour.

Manikandan said the episode made him wonder whether students had been engaging in similar acts by taking advantage of his disability. Feeling humiliated and upset, he reacted impulsively and struck the student. However, he conceded that his action was unacceptable and should never have happened.

Cheruthuruthy police have registered a case against the teacher in connection with the incident. The State government has also intervened, with the Minister concerned seeking a report from the District Child Protection Officer.

The student’s father, however, disputed the teacher’s version of events. He alleged that his son was brutally assaulted merely for leaning over from the bench to pick up the cap of a pen that had fallen on the floor.

The incident sparked strong protests from parents and others, who demanded action against the teacher. Allegations have also surfaced that the teacher had previously used similar methods of physical punishment against students.

Authorities are examining the circumstances surrounding the incident as part of the investigation.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman