Teacher or Tormentor?
A teacher is meant to be a lighthouse—a guide who provides the knowledge and strength to navigate real life. We are taught that a “Guru” leads us from darkness to light. But today, we face a heartbreaking reality where those meant to build lives are instead destroying them.
It has been\ 79 years since India gained independence. For decades, visionaries have fought to erase the stains of untouchability, casteism, and discrimination from our society. Yet, here we are in 2026, witnessing the same poisons ruin lives.
Ten years ago, the nation mourned Rohith Vemula. Today, a new name is added to this tragic list: Nidhin Raj. A bright mind who entered a medical university to save lives had his own life cut short. Allegations of body shaming, caste-based torture, and systematic harassment by those in positions of authority are a shame upon our education system.
It is deeply painful that this happened in Kerala—a state we proudly call “God’s Own Country,” a state that leads the nation in literacy. What is the value of literacy if we cannot teach basic humanity? What is the use of education if it cannot uproot the rot of casteism?
We owe an apology to Nidhin Raj and his family. We failed him. But “sorry” is not enough. We need a systemic change where no student ever feels silenced or small because of their background or appearance. We must demand accountability so that we never have to hear a story like this again.
Rest in power, Nidhin. We will not let your story be forgotten.
