Class 10 boys assault lab assistant over smoking complaint in Andhra Pradesh school

VIJAYAWADA: A disturbing incident at ZP High School, Veeravalli, has raised serious concerns about student discipline after three class 10 boys allegedly attacked a lab assistant who reprimanded them for smoking on campus.According to school sources, the lab assistant noticed the students smoking near the toilets during a break and reported the matter to the principal.Angered by the complaint, the boys confronted him, leading to a heated argument that escalated into an assault. Witnesses said the students also tried to attack others who attempted to record the episode on mobile phones. Locals noted that the lab assistant, who has a speech stutter, was often mocked by some students. The accused claimed he insulted them and their families, sparking the confrontation.The incident, captured on video, quickly went viral on social media, initially creating the impression that teachers were attacked. It later emerged that the victim was a non-teaching staff member.Taking serious note, Krishna district collector DK Balaji ordered an inquiry. District education officer UV Subba Rao visited the school, spoke to teachers and parents, and gathered details. Officials said while the behaviour was unacceptable and could warrant suspension, strict disciplinary action was avoided as the students are due to appear for class 10 exams in 10 days. Instead, counselling sessions will be arranged.Psychologists warned that exposure to violent content on social media and early addictions like smoking may be influencing teenagers to display aggressive behaviour at a young age.