Banda Aceh News | LANGSA, ACEH — A sixth-grade student at SD Negeri Paya Pelawi in Birem Bayeun District, East Aceh Regency, is suffering from persistent vision impairment and severe psychological trauma after allegedly being physically assaulted by a schoolmate on Thursday, October 29, 2026.
The victim’s mother, Nurkhatimah (38), revealed that the violent incident occurred at approximately 7:30 AM WIB inside the school premises before official morning classes commenced. According to the victim, several peers witnessed the assault, and a teacher named Mahmud reportedly intervened to scold the students involved.
However, school administrators have contested the timeline, claiming the altercation transpired outside formal teaching hours.
“My child told me a teacher intervened and scolded them. But when I asked the principal, I was told the incident happened outside of school hours,” Nurkhatimah told reporters in Langsa on Sunday, November 8, 2026.
Unfolding Medical and Psychological Trauma
Nurkhatimah only realized the severity of the injury a day after the incident. Initially, the victim returned home without showing outward signs of trauma or admitting to being bullied. The truth surfaced after the victim’s younger sibling—who attends the same school—informed the family of the altercation.
Alarmed by worsening symptoms, Nurkhatimah rushed her son to local medical facilities and later financed specialized ophthalmology consultations out of pocket. Medical examinations revealed blurred vision, persistent stinging sensations, and recurrent headaches.
“One doctor stated recovery will take time, while another warned of possible long-term impacts on his vision,” Nurkhatimah expressed anxiously. Beyond physical ailments, the young student has withdrawn socially, exhibiting severe behavioral changes and refusing to return to school.
Stalled Mediation and Family Frustration
Four rounds of institutional mediation involving the school and the family of the alleged perpetrator have collapsed without a binding agreement. Nurkhatimah voiced deep frustration over the principal’s dismissive attitude and lack of accountability regarding an incident that unfolded on school grounds.
While the perpetrator’s family provided an initial IDR 250,000 for medical expenses, Nurkhatimah noted it falls drastically short of actual medical costs. Seeking justice and proper care, she has formally requested assistance from the Langsa Women and Children Protection Agency (PPA) to secure psychological counseling and legal advocacy for her son.
Journalists have repeatedly attempted to contact the principal of SD Negeri Paya Pelawi for comment regarding the school’s handling of the bullying incident, but no official response has been issued.
