Tirunelveli, Feb 19:
A 29-year-old mathematics teacher of a private school in Palayamkottai has been arrested under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act for allegedly sexually harassing girl students. The accused, identified as Jobin Solomon, had been working at the school for the past three years. He was handling mathematics classes for students of Classes 9, 10 and 11, according to police sources. Preliminary investigations revealed that he allegedly harassed girl students during classroom sessions. Complaints also stated that he had obtained the phone numbers of girl students through an academic WhatsApp group and sent them inappropriate messages during late-night hours.
The issue came to light after the school management lodged a complaint at the All Women Police Station in Palayamkottai. Following the complaint, the police conducted an inquiry into the allegations.
Police officials said the investigation indicated that the alleged harassment had been taking place for more than three months. Based on the findings, a case was registered against the teacher under the POCSO Act.
He was subsequently arrested and remanded in judicial custody. Further investigation is under way.
