Chhattisgarh Students Self-Harm: A Disturbing Trend

An investigation is underway in Chhattisgarh's Dhamtari district after 35 students from a government middle school displayed self-inflicted wrist injuries. The marks, some appearing several months old, were reportedly inflicted using safety pins or blades, with officials emphasizing the injuries are superficial. Initial findings suggest peer imitation and stress, potentially stemming from personal issues like heartbreak, as the primary drivers, rather than drug use, superstition, or online challenges. The school principal has received a show-cause notice as authorities delve deeper into the matter.

Authorities have dispatched counselors to the remote village of Dahadaha to interact with the affected students and their families. This action follows parents raising concerns after noticing the markings on their children. A joint probe by police and administration has explored various angles, including checking children's phones for tattoo-related content, but found no evidence of online game addiction or coordinated malicious activity. The situation is being treated as a potential copycat phenomenon, with officials urging parents and educators to maintain vigilance over children's behavior.