Kerala's General Education Minister, V Sivankutty, addressed concerns surrounding the tragic suicide of a girl student in Malappuram district. While acknowledging the unfortunate incident, he refuted claims suggesting that the student took her life due to not securing a seat for plus one during the admissions process.
The Left government has faced criticism from opposition parties regarding the alleged shortage of school seats for higher secondary students in Malappuram. Minister Sivankutty assured that preliminary investigations indicate no basis for the student's inability to secure a seat. He clarified that only the first phase of allotment had been completed, with the second phase and community quota admissions commencing shortly.
The minister assured that nearly all students would secure admission by the third phase of allotment. Additionally, supplementary allotments are planned, with classes beginning on June 24. Minister Sivankutty expressed regret that the student chose to end her life before the admission process could be completed and urged the media to refrain from exacerbating mental stress for students and parents through unnecessary discussions about Plus One admission.
While addressing the tragedy, Minister Sivankutty emphasized that the admission process is ongoing, with measures in place to ensure all students receive placement in various courses by the commencement of classes. He urged sensitivity and restraint from the media when reporting on the issue to prevent further distress to students and parents.