Mihir’s former school vice-principal suspended following allegations

Kochi: GEMS Modern Academy, Kochi has suspended vice-principal Binu Azeez following allegations of harassment against 14-year-old Mihir Ahammed, who died by suicide last month by jumping from the 26th floor of an apartment complex in Tripunithura. The school stated that the suspension aims to ensure an impartial investigation.

"The school management has decided to suspend vice principal Mr Binu Azeez with immediate effect to facilitate a thorough and impartial investigation by the school and relevant authorities into the recent incident involving our former student, late Mihir Ahammed," read a press release issued on Sunday.

The school reiterated its commitment to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment while ensuring due process for all individuals involved. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

Speaking to TOI, principal Biju Baby revealed that the school had issued a show cause notice to Azeez in Nov 2024 after Mihir's parents reported harassment. Mihir was subsequently transferred to Global Public School, Thiruvaniyoor.

Baby declined to comment on further actions but confirmed the school's cooperation with police probe. Mihir's parents allege he was also subjected to severe ragging at his new school, which they believe led to his suicide.