Darbhanga, July 16, 2025: Over a week after 13-year-old Jatin Gautam, a student of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Pachadhi, was found hanging from a ceiling fan in his hostel room, pressure continues to mount on the administration for a fair and transparent investigation. The family and local residents have alleged murder, not suicide, and demanded strict action against those responsible.
Jatin, the son of Kevti Panchayat Mukhiya Ruby Kumari and Santosh Kumar, was found dead on July 8. The circumstances surrounding his death have led to widespread public outrage, with thousands threatening to launch a hunger strike from July 15. However, following intervention by senior officials, the agitation has been postponed temporarily.
Hunger Strike Deferred After Administration Assures Fair Probe
On Monday, SDM Sadar Vikas Kumar, along with local MLA Dr. Murari Mohan Jha, met Jatin’s grieving family and local leaders to appeal for patience. The administration promised a fair investigation and assured that an FIR filed by the local SHO would be reviewed and possibly cancelled within ten days.
A three-member committee, including ADM PGRO, District Education Officer, and City SP, has been formed by District Magistrate Kaushal Kumar to probe the school’s environment and the role of the principal, teachers, and hostel warden. Additionally, an SIT (Special Investigation Team) has been constituted by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Jagunath Reddy Jalareddy.
MLA Terms Incident ‘Shocking’, Demands CBI Probe
Calling the incident “deeply shocking,” MLA Dr. Murari Mohan Jha raised serious concerns over the alleged mishandling of the case by the school administration and Rayam police station, particularly officers Inspector Divya Kumari and Inspector Sultan. He alleged their behavior with the victim’s family was insensitive and inappropriate.
“This is not just about one child. It raises questions about hostel safety and administrative accountability. Whether it’s the principal, warden, or fellow students—everyone must be thoroughly investigated,” the MLA said, demanding a CBI inquiry into the incident.
Family Alleges Murder, Accuses School Staff and Students
Jatin’s father Santosh Kumar has categorically stated, “My son was murdered. He could not have taken his own life.” He alleged that house master and other students are involved in the crime and that his earlier complaint to the principal was ignored.
“We want justice, and justice means punishment for those who took our child away,” he said tearfully, adding that administrative negligence contributed to the loss.
Public Pressure Mounts; Citizens Warn of Agitation
Social activist Rajiv Madhukar claimed that the Navodaya Vidyalaya administration and local police tampered with evidence and rushed to label the murder a suicide. “There have been several unreported incidents at the school in the past. This time, people are watching. If action is not taken, a large-scale public movement will begin,” he warned.
He emphasized that since the District Magistrate also serves as the Chairman of the Navodaya School Management Committee, the onus of ensuring child safety lies squarely with him.
DM and SSP Assure Unbiased Investigation
District Magistrate Kaushal Kumar acknowledged the gravity of the situation, calling it “an unfortunate incident.” He stated that an FIR has been registered based on the father’s statement and a multi-level probe is underway. The three-member committee will examine the school’s internal environment and submit a report, based on which further action will be taken.
SSP Jagunath Reddy confirmed the formation of the SIT and reiterated that action will follow based on investigation outcomes.
The MLA, BJP District President Aditya Narayan Manna, parents Santosh Kumar and Mukhiya Ruby Kumari, sister Aanchal Kumari, uncle Ajay Kumar, Rajiv Madhukar, and others met with the DM and SSP, engaging in discussions for nearly half an hour to press for justice.
