Thiruvananthapuram: Education Minister V Sivankutty criticised the headmaster and other officials in connection with the incident where a student was electrocuted at Thevalakkara Boys' School. "Don't the headmaster and other officials see the electricity line every day? What is the job of the Headmaster and the Principal? Shouldn't they pay attention to these things? The Education Director can't look after all 14,000 schools in Kerala. Shouldn't the head of the institution at least look into government directives? We have lost a son. If there is negligence, action will be taken without any compromise," the minister said.

"We have held several meetings before the schools reopened to discuss all issues with everyone. One of the most important instructions was that the electricity line should not run through the school grounds, and if there is one, it should be removed," he said.

"Schools operate with fitness certificates from KSEB (Kerala State Electricity Board) and local self-governing bodies. Around 14,000 schools have obtained the fitness certificate. Fitness certificates should not be issued if the school building is located adjacent to an electricity line. We will check if the fitness certificate has been obtained (by the school concerned)," the minister said.

"The responsibility of shifting the line lies with the headmaster and the education department officials.KSEB also has a responsibility. We will inspect and take necessary action," the minister said. The school is under CPM control.

The minister said that the education director has been instructed to go to the scene, investigate the matter, and submit a report. The minister also said that the government will provide all support to the bereaved family. He said he would visit Kollam and meet the child's family.