A shocking incident unfolded at Bishop Cotton School (BCS) when alumnus Sumit Sood (45) was arrested for allegedly kidnapping three current students in an extortion attempt. Police said Sumit, familiar with the school’s routines and affluent student base, lured the boys during an outing by introducing himself as a former student and offering them a lift near the Vigilance office in Khalini. Instead of heading to Mall Road, he drove them toward upper Shimla.
The children were rescued from a house in Chaithla village, Kotkhai, a day after going missing. Local MLA and former BCS student Harish Janartha said the kidnapping appeared premeditated, with weapons, ropes, and a gun found in Sumit’s possession. The extortion call to parents was made from an international number.
A major breakthrough came from Raunak, a local youth, who identified Sumit’s vehicle from CCTV footage. Working with constables Pawan and Hitesh, Raunak confirmed the car’s match and alerted police, leading to Sumit’s arrest. Raunak was later honoured by Himachal Pradesh Education Minister Rohit Thakur.
School officials confirmed this was the first such incident in BCS history. New safety measures are being introduced, including mandatory adult supervision for all student outings, night stays, and holiday travel.
Authorities reassured parents that the situation is under control, emphasizing Himachal Pradesh’s reputation for safety while acknowledging the need for stricter off-campus protocols.