Kathak maestro Pandit Birju Maharaj has demanded a speedy and fair probe into the death of the 15-year-old Noida student who committed suicide on 20 March. Backing the family’s demands for a CBI probe, the Padma Vibhushan awardee assured the girl’s family that he would approach the Prime Minister and ask for the case to be transferred to the central investigating agency.
The deceased student’s father, who is allegedly a disciple of Pandit Birju Maharaj, approached the maestro expressing his concern over the investigation in the case. The girl’s family is demanding strict action against the principal and two teachers of the Mayur Vihar school where their daughter was studying. The family claims that the minor was harassed by her teachers and was deliberately failed in her exams.
According to a report in The Times Of India, Pandit Birju Maharaj said, “The child was gifted and did not have any reason to take this step. I have taught her father and sometimes guided her as well. It is unlikely that she will commit suicide without provocation. There should be a probe into this incident.”
The renowned Kathak teacher has also reportedly promised to back the family’s efforts to hold a peaceful protest at a location of their choice.
On discovering their daughter’s body inside her room on 20 March 20, the parents filed a case of abetment of suicide and criminal intimidation under the POSCO Act against the school authorities. The Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights has already issued a notice to the school and demanded a reply by 5 April.
Speaking to TOI, Birju Maharaj said, “It hasn’t sunk in yet that the child is no more. Her family members are like my own family, I will provide them with all the support they need,” said Birju Maharaj.
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