Madhya Pradesh Horror: 18-Year-Old Student Sets Teacher Ablaze Over One-Sided Love
Narsinghpur, MP August 20, 2025 — In a shocking incident that has left Madhya Pradesh stunned, an 18-year-old student allegedly poured petrol on a 26-year-old guest teacher and set her on fire in Narsinghpur district. Police say the attack was driven by a mix of personal grudge and one-sided emotional attachment, following a complaint the teacher had lodged against him for inappropriate behaviour.
The Incident
According to officials, the accused — identified as Suryansh Kochar, a former student of Excellence School (Utkrisht Vidyalaya) — arrived at the teacher’s residence in the Kotwali police station area around 3:30 pm on Monday. Carrying a bottle of petrol, he allegedly doused her with the flammable liquid and ignited it before fleeing the scene.
The victim, identified as Smriti Dixit, sustained burn injuries estimated between 10–25 percent. Quick-thinking neighbours and family members rushed her to the district hospital, from where she was later referred to Jabalpur Medical College for specialised treatment. Doctors have confirmed that while her injuries are serious, they are not life-threatening.
Trigger: Independence Day Incident
Investigations reveal that the chain of events began on August 15, during the school’s Independence Day celebrations. The teacher, dressed in a saree for the occasion, was subjected to an objectionable remark by Kochar. Offended and disturbed, she reported the matter to the school principal.
School authorities took the complaint seriously, and Kochar — who had a history of disciplinary issues — was confronted. This appears to have enraged him, leading to the premeditated attack just days later.
Background of the Accused
Police records and school statements indicate that Kochar had studied at Excellence School until Class 9, after which he was expelled for repeated misconduct. He later enrolled in Government Higher Secondary School, Kalyanpur, where he was pursuing Class 12 (Biology) at the time of the incident.
Authorities say Kochar had known the teacher for over two years and had developed a “one-sided affection” towards her. This, combined with resentment over the complaint, allegedly fuelled the violent act.
Police Action
The Kotwali police acted swiftly, arresting Kochar within hours from Kalyanpur village under Dongargaon police station limits. He has been booked under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including attempt to murder.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Sandeep Bhuria confirmed that the investigation is focusing on the angle of personal vendetta linked to the harassment complaint. “Further action will be taken on the basis of the victim’s full statement,” he said.
School & Community Reaction
Excellence School Principal G.S. Patel expressed shock over the incident, noting that the teacher had joined the institution just one-and-a-half months ago as both a lab technician and guest faculty. “This has shaken the entire school community,” Patel said.
Residents of Narsinghpur have reacted with outrage, demanding stricter measures to protect teachers from harassment and violence. Several local women’s groups have called for fast-track trial proceedings.
Victim’s Condition & Support
Hospital sources report that the victim is stable but will require weeks of recovery and possible reconstructive treatment. The district administration has assured that her medical expenses will be covered, and counselling support will be provided.
A Disturbing Pattern
This case adds to a worrying trend of violence against educators in India, raising questions about student discipline, mental health awareness, and institutional safeguards. Experts say that one-sided romantic obsession — often glamorised in popular culture — can escalate into dangerous behaviour when combined with entitlement and lack of accountability.
Legal Outlook
If convicted, Kochar could face a lengthy prison sentence. Legal experts note that the severity of the burns, the premeditated nature of the attack, and the motive will weigh heavily in court proceedings.
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