Student tries to kill self over theft accusation in Chengalpet

Chennai: A Class 9 student attempted to end her life by jumping from the first floor of a govt school in Chengalpet district on Friday after being accused of stealing her classmate's mobile phone. She suffered fractures in her hip and neck due to the fall and is undergoing treatment at the hospital.Police said the girl,who studies at a govt school in Chengalpet district, lives with her grandparents as her parents passed away years ago. A preliminary inquiry revealed that 10 days ago, the girl borrowed her classmate's mobile phone and took photographs using it. Subsequently the phone was missing and her friends accused her of stealing it. On Friday, when she arrived at school, some students argued with her over the issue. Unable to cope with the mental distress, she jumped from the first floor of the school building. On receiving information, teachers and the principal rushed her to Chengalpet Govt Hospital, where she is now undergoing treatment in the ICU. The Maduranthakam police registered a case and launched an investigation. (Assistance for those having suicidal thoughts is available on TN's health helpline 104 and Sneha's suicide prevention helpline 044-24640050)