Senior Multimedia Reporter
radhica.sookraj@guardian.co.tt
Six days after 15-year-old Jayden Lalchan ended his life to escape the torment of a school bully, grief consumed JR & D’s Convention Centre in Princes Town as family, friends, and schoolmates gathered to pay their final respects in memory of the young life lost too soon.
Loved ones described Lalchan as a kind, creative, and loving soul who had already decided on his career path in Information Technology.
As she stood at the podium fighting back tears, aunt Angie Bhattan said, “No words can describe the pain we feel. I remember when he was born and what joy he brought into our lives. He had a smile that would make my heart glad. He was kind, loving, generous, creative, and funny. Our pain is overwhelming, and our grief immense.”
She also reflected on Lalchan’s namesake, noting, “In Hebrew, Jayden means ‘thankful’, but it also means ‘God will judge.’”
As mourners wept openly, Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar promised justice. “This child was so afraid of the harm these bullies would bring to him and his family, he thought the only way out was to end his own life,” she said, while Lalchan’s parents, Nelly (Fareeda) and Rohan, cried.
“We have a collective responsibility to ensure no other child suffers the way Jayden did. I promise you, we will take all necessary steps to ensure justice is served for Jayden, for his parents, and for every child who endures the cruelty of bullying,” Persad-Bissessar said.
“We always advocate for forgiveness, but justice must also be served. No child should be pushed to the point where they feel that death is their only escape. I will ensure that those who hunted your son and all those who turned a blind eye to his suffering will be held accountable.”
Pastor Josh Gajramsingh also had questions about the bully responsible for Lalchan’s death. “Was it worth it? Is this what you wanted?” Gajramsingh asked. Pointing to Lalchan’s casket, Gajramsingh said it was a stark reminder of what can happen when people remain silent about bullying.
“This is what happens when we do not act,” he said, as he called for support for children.
To Lalchan’s classmates, he said, “Don’t be silent! Speak up, say something! Jayden’s death is a call for us all to speak up before more lives are lost.”
He added, “Don’t let there be another statistic. Don’t let a child take his life because of some self-centred, egotistical individual who does not value human life.”
Lalchan’s schoolmates applauded while some sobbed uncontrollably. Meanwhile, Nickolas Bhattan, Lalchan’s cousin, shared fond memories of him.
“I can close my eyes and see that little boy dancing to a song, always thoughtful and paying attention to the smallest details,” he said.
“He was brilliant, loved by so many. His memory will continue to shine in our lives.”
During the service, Lalchan’s mother collapsed in grief and had to be helped by relatives. The weight of her loss was unbearable as she cried out for her son, touching his face tenderly.
As Lalchan’s coffin was carried out, many in attendance sobbed as they prayed for peace and justice.
Lalchan ended his life last Wednesday. His body was found hanging from his Broomage Road, Princes Town home. He had endured three years of bullying at St Stephen’s College, but despite repeated reports, nothing was done.
The school held a peace walk last Friday. On Monday evening, hundreds held a candlelight vigil in his honour.
