Latur (Maharashtra): A teacher in Latur district has been arrested for allegedly assaulting 32 students, suspecting them of damaging his motorcycle, police said.

The incident took place on the night of February 21 at the private school hostel for students from classes 5 to 10 near Ahmedpur. Several students reportedly sustained injuries during the attack.

The accused, identified as Ujjwal Prakash Soni, allegedly lost his temper and used a bamboo stick to thrash dozens of minor students. Police added that Soni also threatened the children, saying he would soon become the school principal and “would then deal with them.”

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The principal of Christ International School, Zeba Nadar, later filed a complaint at Ahmedpur Police Station.

Police registered a case against Soni under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, leading to his arrest on Monday.

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In a statement, Principal Nadar said the complaint was lodged on February 22 and reaffirmed the school’s commitment to student safety.

"The incident is deeply unfortunate and condemnable. The school administration stands firmly with the students and will ensure their well-being," she said.