Retired Principal and Career Counsellor Arrested in Kannur for Alleged Sexual Assault
A 59-year-old retired higher secondary school principal has been arrested in Kannur, Kerala, for allegedly attempting to sexually assault a 17-year-old girl student. The accused, identified as K C Shaju, was taken into custody by the Muzhakkunnu police and has been remanded to judicial custody for 14 days following a thorough investigation.
Details of the Alleged Incident
According to police reports, the incident occurred approximately four months ago when the minor student visited Shaju's residence for a counselling session. The retired principal, who also worked as a career counsellor and motivational speaker, is accused of attempting to assault the teenager during this meeting. A formal complaint was subsequently filed by the victim, leading to the registration of a case and a detailed probe by authorities.
Background of the Accused
K C Shaju had a long career in education before his retirement, serving as a principal at a higher secondary school. After leaving his formal position, he continued to work in the education sector as a state-level faculty member for career guidance and adolescent counselling under the higher secondary education department. His roles included:
- Providing career counselling to students across the state
- Conducting motivational speaking sessions for adolescents
- Offering guidance on educational and personal development
This background has added a layer of shock to the allegations, given his trusted position in the community and his work with young people.
Police Investigation and Legal Proceedings
The Muzhakkunnu police initiated an investigation based on the complaint filed by the victim. After gathering evidence and conducting interviews, they determined there was sufficient grounds to arrest Shaju. The case highlights the importance of vigilance in educational and counselling settings, where professionals are expected to maintain the highest ethical standards.
The accused is currently in judicial custody, and the legal process is underway to ensure justice is served. Authorities have emphasized their commitment to protecting minors and holding offenders accountable, regardless of their social or professional status.
This incident has sparked discussions about safety protocols in counselling environments and the need for stricter background checks for individuals working closely with students. The community and educational authorities are likely to review existing safeguards to prevent such occurrences in the future.
