A school disciplinary incident in Thailand has sparked public concern after a student was hospitalised for muscle injuries allegedly caused by an extreme physical punishment imposed by a teacher. The case, which surfaced on social media earlier this week, has reignited debate over school discipline methods and student welfare in the country.
The incident came to light after the student’s father shared his son’s ordeal on a popular Thai Facebook page that frequently highlights social issues. According to the post, the student was ordered to perform 800 squats as punishment for failing to submit homework, an action that reportedly led to severe muscle strain and hospitalisation.
STUDENT SUFFERED SEVERE PAIN AFTER RETURNING HOME
According to the father, the student returned home from school complaining of intense pain in his legs. His condition worsened over time, prompting the family to seek immediate medical attention at a hospital. Doctors conducted blood tests to assess the extent of the injuries, with initial results indicating that the boy’s kidney function remained normal.
However, medical staff expressed concern over possible muscle damage caused by excessive physical exertion. Further tests focusing on muscle enzyme levels were scheduled, with results expected several days later. Such tests are commonly used to detect muscle breakdown, which can lead to serious complications if left untreated.
Doctors instructed the student to rest completely and avoid walking for at least three days. He was also advised to keep his legs elevated and drink approximately three litres of water daily to reduce the risk of further complications and support recovery.
CONCERNS RAISED OVER EXTREME SCHOOL DISCIPLINE
The student’s father voiced deep concern over the severity of the punishment, questioning how such an extreme form of discipline could be justified in a school setting. He warned that forcing students to perform excessive physical exercise could easily result in torn muscles or long-term injuries, especially among children and teenagers.
He urged schools to adopt safer and more constructive disciplinary measures, such as assigning cleaning duties or other non-physical tasks, instead of resorting to punishments that place students’ health at risk. His comments resonated with many online, who criticised harsh disciplinary practices and called for clearer guidelines to protect students.
Nurses who attended to the student reportedly revealed that this was not an isolated case. According to them, two female students from the same school had recently been treated for similar symptoms linked to physical punishment, raising further questions about the school’s disciplinary culture.
PAST INCIDENTS HIGHLIGHT BROADER ISSUE
The case has drawn comparisons to a previous incident reported late last year, when a mother in Udon Thani spoke out after her 10-year-old son was allegedly assaulted during punishment at school. The child was later diagnosed with rib cartilage inflammation after reportedly being kneed and kicked by a teacher.
In that case, the student and his classmates had been accused of teasing another pupil. While other students were allegedly struck with a stick, the boy was said to have suffered more severe physical force, prompting widespread outrage and calls for accountability.
These incidents have fuelled growing public scrutiny over school discipline practices in Thailand, with parents and advocacy groups urging education authorities to prioritise child safety and mental wellbeing. As discussions continue, many are calling for clearer regulations and stricter oversight to ensure that disciplinary measures do not cross the line into abuse.