Class 8 student pulled off school bus due to pending bus fees

KANNUR: A Class 8 student from S.A.B.T.M. Higher Secondary School in Thayineri was allegedly pulled off the school bus and publicly humiliated over claims of pending bus fees, sparking controversy on the very first day of the academic year.

According to a complaint filed by the boy’s father with the Chief Minister, Education Minister, and Childline, school bus coordinator Ismail allegedly dragged the child off the bus by his shirt in front of fellow students and escorted him to the office, where he was subjected to further humiliation. The incident reportedly took place as the student attempted to board the bus in the afternoon to return home, despite having arrived at school in the same bus that morning.

The father described the public humiliation as deeply traumatic for his son. He further alleged that the school authorities later arranged for the boy to be dropped off on a scooter at Keloth, approximately six kilometres from the school. Upon learning of the incident, the father said he had to pick up his son from Keloth, noting that their home was another eight kilometres away.

The boy's father maintained that there were no pending bus fees. He claimed he had checked with school officials two weeks earlier and was informed that no dues were pending. Even after the incident, the school reportedly did not confirm any fee arrears. The father also mentioned that the school officials admitted there was a lapse in handling the situation and assured that an inquiry would be conducted and action taken.

Meanwhile, the school authorities denied the allegation that the student was pulled by his shirt. They said the student missed the bus while they were speaking to him and was therefore dropped off on a scooter. A school management meeting was held yesterday. Reportedly, there are efforts to resolve the issue by having the staff member involved apologise to the child. Based on the parent's complaint, the Chief Minister's office has sought a detailed explanation from the Payyannur police and has instructed them to conduct an investigation and submit a report immediately.