In Mayiladuthurai, Tamil Nadu, a Class 12 student of a government higher secondary school attempted suicide on the school premises on Tuesday. Police sources said the headmaster, Indhirakumar, scolded the girl for not backing his sexual harassment complaint against a teacher. Other students alerted teachers, who rushed the girl to Mayiladuthurai Government Hospital, where her condition is reported stable.

According to police sources, Indhirakumar had earlier lodged a complaint with higher education department officials alleging that a teacher sexually harassed female students. He claimed five students had complained to him about the teacher's inappropriate behaviour. The education department conducted an inquiry last month, recording statements from the five students and others.