Fatal School Clash in Kozhikode: Disturbing Social Media Messages Reveal Lack of Remorse

A recent investigation into the tragic death of 15-year-old Mohammed Shahbaz in Thamarassery, Kozhikode, has uncovered unsettling social media exchanges among the students involved. These messages, shared after the violent altercation, reveal a shocking absence of remorse, with students casually discussing the attack and its aftermath.

Tensions Escalate Into Violence

The conflict originated during a farewell event at a local tuition center, where a technical glitch disrupted a dance performance by students from MJHSS Elettil School, including Shahbaz. The incident sparked tensions with students from Thamarassery GVHSS, which escalated into a violent confrontation days later.

On the evening of February 23, the altercation took place near the Triz Tuition Center on Vezhuppur Road. Shahbaz sustained severe head injuries during the clash and was admitted to Kozhikode Government Medical College. Despite medical intervention, he succumbed to his injuries early on February 24.

Alarming Social Media Exchanges

In the aftermath of the attack, disturbing messages surfaced among the accused students. Screenshots revealed chilling statements such as:

• "If I say, I mean it… I will kill Shahbaz, I will kill him... Go and look at his eyes, he has no eyes. We will see after two days..."
• "There is no problem if he dies... police will not book a case..."

These revelations have sparked public outrage, highlighting concerns over rising youth violence and the influence of social media in escalating conflicts.

Legal Proceedings and Investigation

Following Shahbaz’s death, five students from Thamarassery GVHSS were taken into custody. As they are minors, they were presented before the Juvenile Justice Board and subsequently released on bail, with instructions to appear for further proceedings.

Authorities are also investigating allegations from Shahbaz’s family that individuals from outside the school community may have been involved in the attack.

A Fatal Confrontation

What began as a heated exchange during a farewell event evolved into a series of confrontations, culminating in the fatal attack. On the evening of the incident, students from both schools engaged in a physical altercation near a tea stall on Thamarassery-Vezhupur Road. Witnesses reported that a martial arts weapon, possibly a nunchaku, was used during the fight.

Although Shahbaz managed to leave the scene, he did not seek immediate medical attention. Instead, he rested at a friend’s house before returning home. His condition worsened, and his family, initially unaware of the severity of his injuries, took him to Thamarassery Taluk Hospital. Due to internal bleeding and a skull fracture, he was later transferred to Kozhikode Government Medical College, where he succumbed to his injuries.

Growing Concerns Over Student Violence

The incident has reignited discussions about student safety, the role of social media in fostering aggression, and the need for preventive measures in schools. In response, General Education Minister V. Sivankutty has directed the Director of General Education to conduct a departmental inquiry.

As the police investigation continues, authorities are working to determine whether additional individuals were involved in the attack. Meanwhile, the tragic loss of Mohammed Shahbaz has left the community in shock, raising urgent questions about the factors contributing to such violent confrontations among students.