Chennai: In a shocking act of school violence, a Class 8 student at a private school in Palayamkottai attacked his classmate with a machete on Tuesday morning, reportedly over a quarrel that began two months ago over a pencil. The accused later surrendered at the nearby police station with the weapon.
The incident occurred inside the school premises around 10 am. The attacker allegedly slashed the victim multiple times on the head, shoulders, and hands. A class teacher, identified as Revathi (44), who intervened to protect the injured student, also suffered hand injuries.
Both the injured student and the teacher were taken to a private hospital and are said to be in stable condition.
According to police, the two boys had frequent arguments following their initial disagreement. Authorities are also probing if the attack had any connection to a rumored love angle involving some students.
The violent episode has alarmed educators and law enforcement, especially since it follows similar recent cases:
In March, a Class 11 student in Srivaikundam was attacked by three assailants on his way to a public exam.
In August 2023, a Scheduled Caste student and his sister were assaulted at home by peers from another caste.
In April 2022, a Class 12 student died after being attacked with stones during a caste-related dispute.
Amid rising school violence, the Tamil Nadu government had earlier formed a special committee led by retired Justice K. Chandru to recommend preventive steps.
Police have launched a detailed investigation into Tuesday’s incident, with senior officers, including DCP Vinodh Shantharam, visiting the school.