Gadchiroli Ashramshala Superintendent Suspended After Student's Suicide
A Class 8 girl's suicide prompts swift action from state officials, including the suspension of the hostel superintendent.
A Class 8 student died by suicide in Gadchiroli, leading to the superintendent's suspension.
Minister Ashok Uikey promised justice and financial support to the victim's family.
An inquiry is underway to investigate the circumstances surrounding the girl's death.
In a tragic incident, a Class 8 girl student at a government ashramshala in Gadchiroli district took her own life, prompting immediate action from state authorities. Following the incident, which occurred on Monday evening, Ashok Uikey, the state's tribal development minister, ordered the suspension of the hostel's superintendent and initiated an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the girl's death.
The incident has raised serious concerns among the community, particularly after allegations surfaced from the girl's parents that she was confined to her room and prevented from returning home for the Durga Puja festival. The girl, who was reportedly feeling unwell, had expressed a desire to celebrate the festival with her family. However, after a visit from her parents, who took her to a local health center, she was brought back to the ashramshala against her wishes, as the hostel warden advised her to stay for upcoming exams and special classes.
Gadchiroli Superintendent of Police M Ramesh stated that the case is currently being treated as an accidental death. Authorities are gathering statements from the girl's parents and assessing the findings of the investigation before determining any further legal actions. Minister Uikey visited the family at Kurkheda sub-district hospital, where he offered condolences and financial assistance of Rs 2 lakh, along with a promise of employment for the girl's mother at the ashramshala.
The implications of this incident extend beyond the immediate tragedy, raising questions about the management of tribal residential schools in Maharashtra. Uikey emphasized the need for accountability among officials and directed them to ensure the safety and well-being of students in ashramshalas. The tribal development department has a standing order that students who are unwell should not leave the facility until they recover, but the circumstances of this case are under scrutiny.
As the inquiry progresses, additional tribal commissioner Ayushi Singh confirmed that a report is expected soon. She has been in contact with both the superintendent and the victim's relatives, and CCTV footage will be reviewed to validate the parents' claims. The department is committed to cooperating with the police investigation while ensuring that similar incidents do not occur in the future.
