A Class 12 student from a school in Thiruvananthapuram is in critical condition after drinking half a litre of liquor. The boy is said to have consumed the alcohol undiluted after being challenged by his friends.

Seven students belonging to different institutions had gathered at an under-construction house in Althara Junction during the Onam celebrations at the school. After purchasing liquor from a BEVCO outlet in Plamoodu, the students gathered at the spot, where, upon a dare, the boy chugged an entire bottle of alcohol. Moments later, the boy collapsed. Another student alerted the Museum Police, who arrived at the scene and rushed him to the Government Medical College Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram.

According to the Museum Station Circle Inspector Vimal S, the boy began convulsing and vomiting after he drank alcohol straight from the bottle. "Food particles had entered his lungs, leading to respiratory complications. He is currently on ventilator support," he said. Police said that while his condition is stable and his blood pressure is normal, his breathing remains uneven due to the presence of food particles in his lungs.

An FIR has not yet been registered, as all the students involved are underage. “The students bought two half-litre bottles and one beer from the BEVCO outlet in Plamoodu. They pooled in the cash to pay for the liquor," the officer said. 

“We will be submitting a report to BEVCO in this regard. We have also suggested that BEVCO staff check the identity cards of people purchasing alcohol to confirm their age. The school has been asked to conduct a parent-teacher meeting to create awareness. Especially during festival time, teachers should monitor students going out in colour dress, and parents must keep track of their children and ensure they return home on time,” the officer added.