Surat: 35 school students perform 'Animal'-style farewell stunt in luxury cars, watch viral video

Surat police are investigating 35 high school students for traffic violations during their farewell celebration. The students allegedly performed car stunts and set off firecrackers while driving to the event in a convoy of luxury cars on February 7th. A video of the incident, set to music from the Bollywood film "Animal," circulated online, prompting public outcry and police action, a TOI report stated. Officers have detained 12 of the 26 identified cars and initiated legal proceedings against the students and their parents.

School denies involvement

The students, dressed in blazers for their last day, recorded their journey using drones and cameras. The video led to public outrage, with many questioning the lack of immediate police intervention. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Amita Vanani stated, "We have reviewed the footage and identified multiple violations. The law will take its course, and necessary action will be taken against those responsible."



The Pal police, under whose jurisdiction the school falls, visited the institution to collect details of the students and their parents. School founder Vardan Kabra clarified that the institution did not support such activities. "We have fully cooperated with the police and provided all necessary details. A day before the farewell, we advised parents and students via email not to arrive in personal vehicles, even if they had valid driving licences. Instead, we recommended drop-offs by parents or drivers and arranged buses. No cars were allowed inside the school premises," Kabra told TOI.

Police to verify vehicle ownership and licenses

DCP (Zone-5) Rakesh Barot said that authorities identified 26 cars from the viral video. "Of these, 12 cars were detained from the students' homes, nine were out of station and will be seized soon, and five used for family functions were expected to be seized at night."

Barot added, "After detaining all the cars, we will verify the driver, licence, and ownership details, and examine the extent of violations before taking further action."

Concern for students' mental well-being

With board exams scheduled for April-May, police officials emphasized a balanced approach to avoid undue stress on students. "We must be careful in our actions so that students are not unduly stressed or disturbed ahead of their board exams," officials stated.

Founded in 2005 with just six students, the school has since grown into a leading institution in Surat, offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum to over 2,200 students.