Thimphu Police is investigating the alleged battery case involving students of Lungtenzampa Middle Secondary School. The investigation comes after several video clips of a group of students physically assaulting other female students went viral on social media yesterday. The students involved have been referred to the PEMA Secretariat for psychosocial assessment and support.
Several videos showing the physical assault surfaced online yesterday evening. The clips quickly went viral before being removed.
Following this incident, the Lungtenzampa Middle Secondary School issued a statement on its Facebook page today.
The school said the case involved two related incidents of student-to-student violence. According to the Facebook statement, the second incident, which was recorded and later circulated online, appears to have been a response to the first incident.
The school said it verified the incidents on 14th June and immediately initiated disciplinary procedures. It also coordinated with the police and relevant education authorities.
The students involved have been suspended for now. Their parents and guardians have been called to the school.
With examinations currently underway, the school said temporary supervision measures are put in place to ensure safety and discipline.
The school also said disciplinary action will also be taken against those who recorded and shared the videos online, in accordance with school regulations and relevant laws.
The school is also reviewing preventive measures, student support systems, and awareness programmes on responsible social media use and digital citizenship.
Meanwhile, police clarified that they are investigating the case and not The PEMA Secretariat, contrary to the claims on social media.
The students were referred to The PEMA Secretariat yesterday morning in line with national child protection protocols.
The PEMA Secretariat said such referrals are part of the child protection system aimed at ensuring the safety, well-being, and best interests of children, while respecting the mandates of all relevant agencies.
As the national agency responsible for coordinating mental health services, The PEMA Secretariat provides psychological assessments, counselling, and referrals for children at risk, children who have experienced harm, among others.
Authorities are urging the public to refrain from sharing the video clips or making unhealthy comments on the video related to the incident. Circulating such content may do more harm than good and can have long-term consequences for the parties involved.
Sonam Yuden & Tashi Dekar
Edited by Sonam Pem
