Class 10 student dies after electrocution by illegal fence in Nilambur
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Thiruvananthapuram: Tension flared in Nilambur in Kerala's Malappuram district after a Class 10 student was electrocuted by a live wire from an illegal electric fence set up to trap wild boars.
The incident occurred on Saturday night, just weeks ahead of the Nilambur by-election scheduled for June 19. The student's death sparked widespread protests by opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) activists, who blocked roads and clashed with the police.
The victim, Ananthu alias Jithu (15), a resident of Vazhikadavu near Nilambur, had gone to a stream with three friends after playing football when he accidentally came into contact with the electrified fence.
The fence, reportedly installed by a private landowner, was illegally connected to the power supply to deter wild boars.
Eyewitnesses stated that all four boys suffered electric shocks, but one managed to escape and alert nearby residents.
Locals rushed to the scene, quickly disconnecting the power supply before transporting the injured to the hospital. Jithu was declared brought dead, while two others—identified as Yadhu Krishnan and Sachu—sustained injuries. Sachu’s condition is reported to be critical.
Outraged by the incident, UDF activists staged a road blockade in Nilambur, resulting in a brief scuffle with the police. Protesters also obstructed a police vehicle and raised slogans demanding justice.
The demonstration later shifted to the local police station, where agitators called for the immediate arrest of those responsible and action against the electricity board.
“This is not an isolated incident. There are illegal electric traps all over the area. People had raised complaints earlier, but no serious action was taken,” said local residents. Political leaders were quick to respond.
UDF candidate Aryadan Shoukath squarely blamed the state government and the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) for negligence. “The KSEB has shown shocking indifference to public safety and has tacitly allowed such deadly traps. If stringent action is not taken, we will intensify our protests,” he warned.
LDF candidate and CPI(M) leader M. Swaraj called the incident “deeply unfortunate” and demanded a thorough investigation to ensure accountability.
The police have registered a case and initiated an inquiry into the source of the electric connection and the individual responsible for installing the trap. The district administration has assured that stringent action will be taken against those found guilty.
(inputs from IANS)
