Nine Students Arrested for Sexually Harassing Boy at Thoothukudi School

Police arrested nine students for allegedly sexually harassing an eighth-grade boy at a government school near Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. The harassment reportedly occurred repeatedly within the school premises. The victim was allegedly forced to stand naked in the classroom, hit on his genitals with rubber bands and scales, and had chili powder and bubble gum applied to him. The accused threatened him with further harassment if he reported the abuse, causing the boy to suffer in fear and frequent illness. A teacher informed the boy's mother, who complained to the headmaster, but he reportedly downplayed the incident. Police registered a case under the BNS and POCSO Act, and the nine students were sent to a juvenile home. Authorities stated that teachers who attempted to cover up the incident will face departmental action.