Kollam: Education Minister V Sivankutty has expressed deep sorrow over the electrocution death of a student at Thevalakkara Boys High School in Kollam, describing it as an "unbearable tragedy" for the family. “It feels like losing a son,” the minister said, offering his condolences.

Midhun, a Class 8 student, died on Thursday morning after coming in contact with a live wire while trying to retrieve a pair of shoes from the roof of the school building.

In response, the Director of Education was directed to visit the site immediately, and the Kollam District Director of Education has also reached the school. Minister Sivankutty said he would personally visit the location later in the day.

The minister revealed that multiple preparatory meetings had been held with school officials before reopening, and detailed instructions had been issued, including the critical directive to ensure that no live electric lines be present inside school compounds. If such lines exists, schools were instructed to have it removed.

He questioned whether school heads were properly fulfilling their responsibilities: “What other work do headmasters and principals have that prevents them from paying attention to such matters? The Education Director cannot inspect all 14,000 schools across the state. It is the responsibility of school heads to follow government guidelines.”

The minister confirmed that an inquiry had been launched by the Electricity Department and that the government would provide all necessary support to the grieving family. He also said it would be verified whether the school had obtained a mandatory fitness certificate.

Addressing media reports of similar safety lapses in other schools, Sivankutty stressed that if negligence is found in Midhun’s death, strict action will be taken. “There will be no compromise with those responsible,” he assured, adding that the matter has been brought to the attention of the Chief Minister.