Five students flee into forest after alleged assault by teacher in Palghar; police begin investigation
Palghar
In Palghar, five school students ran into a nearby forest after their teacher allegedly beat them. Police are investigating the assault and reviewing school safety measures.
Palghar | Nov 20, 2025:- A disturbing incident in Palghar district has raised serious concerns about child safety in schools after five students reportedly ran away and hid in a nearby forest to escape an alleged assault by their teacher. The children, shaken and frightened, were found hours later by police and school authorities after an extensive search in the surrounding forested area.
According to early details shared by local residents, the teacher lost patience with the students during class and allegedly beat them with a stick. The children, all from the same class, panicked and fled the classroom when the teacher momentarily stepped out. Instead of seeking help within the school, they ran toward the forest, fearing further punishment. Their disappearance caused immediate panic among school staff, who alerted the local police.
A team consisting of police personnel, teachers and villagers began searching the area. After nearly two hours, the children were found sitting together deep inside the forest, visibly terrified. Some had minor bruises, while others appeared emotionally traumatised. They were taken for medical examination and later reunited with their parents.
Police have taken the teacher into custody for questioning and registered a case under relevant sections related to assault and endangerment of minors. Officers said they are verifying the sequence of events and gathering statements from other students who witnessed the incident. They also plan to review whether the school has a history of complaints regarding excessive punishment.
Parents of the students expressed anger and disbelief that their children chose to hide in the forest rather than seek help from any adult nearby. They said this reaction shows a complete breakdown of trust between students and the school’s disciplinary system. Many demanded the immediate suspension of the teacher and strict action against the school administration for failing to create a safe environment.
Child rights activists in the region said this case highlights the ongoing problem of corporal punishment in some rural and tribal schools despite clear legal prohibitions. They pointed out that children in such areas often hesitate to report harsh treatment, fearing retaliation or lack of support. Activists have urged the district administration to conduct surprise inspections in schools across Palghar to assess whether discipline rules are being properly followed.
District education officials have launched an internal inquiry. They said the school may face penalties if the allegations are proven and that staff will undergo counselling and training to ensure safe handling of disciplinary issues. Authorities also emphasised that every school must have a functional mechanism where students can report concerns without fear.
For the five students involved, the immediate priority is emotional recovery. Counsellors have been assigned to speak with them and monitor their psychological well-being over the next few days. Parents have been reassured that the administration will take steps to prevent such incidents in the future, including increased supervision and stricter monitoring of teacher conduct.
The incident has sparked a wider conversation across Palghar about the state of school safety, teacher accountability and the need for compassionate disciplinary methods. As the investigation continues, many hope this case will lead to stronger protections for children and a more vigilant approach from school authorities across the district.
