High Court Dismisses School's Petition to Quash Case
The Karnataka High Court has declined to quash a criminal case against a school following an incident where a Class 4 student lost his vision after colored confetti was sprayed inside a school bus. The incident occurred on August 1, 2025, in Maddur, Mandya district, when the boy was traveling home. According to court records, some students sprayed colored confetti or sparklers inside the bus, and a particle entered the boy's eyes, causing severe injury and loss of vision.
Details of the Incident
The victim, a student of Class 4, was on the school bus when fellow students began spraying colored confetti. One of these particles struck his eye, leading to immediate pain and subsequent loss of vision. The boy was rushed to a hospital, where doctors confirmed permanent damage. The parents filed a complaint against the school, alleging negligence in supervision and safety measures.
Legal Proceedings
The school moved the High Court seeking to quash the case, arguing that the incident was accidental and that the school could not be held liable for the actions of students. However, the court observed that the school has a duty to ensure the safety of students while under its care, including during transportation. "The school cannot absolve itself of responsibility when children are in its custody," the judge remarked.
The court noted that the bus driver and attendants were present but failed to prevent the spraying of confetti, which is inherently dangerous. The High Court also pointed out that the school's own rules prohibit such items on buses, indicating prior knowledge of the risk.
Impact on the Victim
The boy's family stated that he has suffered irreversible vision loss in one eye, affecting his education and daily life. Medical reports submitted to the court confirmed the extent of the injury. The family is seeking compensation and justice through the legal process.
Broader Implications
This case highlights the responsibility of educational institutions to ensure student safety during school transport. Legal experts say the ruling sets a precedent that schools can be held criminally liable for negligence if they fail to prevent foreseeable dangers. The trial will now proceed in the lower court, where the school must defend its actions.
The Karnataka High Court's refusal to quash the case means the school will face trial for charges including negligence and endangering the life of a child. The next hearing is scheduled for August 2026.
