“Ma, I Am Not a Thief”: Class 7 Boy Dies by Suicide After Being Falsely Accused of Stealing Chips

 

In a heartbreaking incident that has left a community in shock, a 12-year-old boy in West Bengal’s Paschim Medinipur district died by suicide after being falsely accused of stealing a packet of chips. The boy, Krishendu Das, was a Class 7 student and known for his cheerful nature, but an incident on Thursday evening changed his life forever.

 

 

 

The tragedy unfolded in the Gosainber area of Panskura. A local sweet shop owner and civic volunteer, Shuvankar Dikshit, claimed that three packets of chips were blown out of his shop by the wind. Krishendu, who happened to be nearby, picked up the packets. However, instead of allowing him to explain, Dikshit accused him of theft.

 

 

 

Witnesses said Dikshit scolded the boy harshly, forced him to apologize by doing sit-ups while holding his ears, and made him pay ₹15 for the snacks. Despite the boy’s repeated pleas, stating, “Uncle, I will buy the chips,” the shopkeeper allegedly humiliated him in front of others.

Following the public humiliation, Krishendu returned home, where his mother reprimanded him further after hearing about the incident. She reportedly slapped him, unaware of the severity of his emotional state.

Deeply hurt, Krishendu consumed pesticide in an apparent attempt to escape the shame and pain he felt. He was rushed to Tamluk Hospital and admitted to the ICU, but tragically, he could not be saved.

 

Before taking his life, Krishendu left a heart-wrenching note addressed to his mother:

“Ma, I am not a thief. I did not steal. Uncle was not there when I waited. On my way back, I saw a Kurkure packet on the road and picked it up. I love Kurkure. These are my final words before leaving. Please forgive me for what I have done.”

 

Although no official complaint was filed by Krishendu’s family, police have taken suo moto action. A case of unnatural death has been registered, and authorities are investigating the matter. The boy’s body has been sent for postmortem, and the results are awaited.

The shopkeeper, Shuvankar Dikshit, reportedly fled the area after the incident. Efforts are underway to locate him for questioning.

 

The incident has sparked outrage and grief in the community, with residents demanding justice for the young boy. Social media is flooded with messages of condolence and calls for stricter action against public humiliation, particularly involving children.

 

Krishendu’s tragic death is a stark reminder of the power of words and actions, particularly towards vulnerable children. It highlights the urgent need for kindness, patience, and understanding in our daily interactions. His story is a wake-up call to address the growing issue of humiliation and its potentially devastating consequences.

As investigations continue, Krishendu’s innocent plea—“Ma, I am not a thief”—echoes as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion in society.