Class 3 boy features in govt school book as role model for honesty

Mohammad Yasin, the boy then studying in Class 2 at Chinnesemur Panchayat government middle school in Erode, was on the way to his school one morning last July when he spotted a bag lying near a bush on the roadside. When he opened it, Yasin found that it contained bundles of notes – about Rs 50,000. He took the bag to school and handed it over to his class teacher V Jayanthi, who immediately informed the headmistress Yasmine.

The school authorities, along with the boy, went to police station and handed over the cash. The officers at the station not only appreciated his gesture, but also tried to offer him some money as reward. But, despite being poor, the boy refused the money. This was highlighted in the media, which made seven-year-old famous across the state for his honesty and integrity.

This year, Tamil book Athichudi for Class 2 has carried this episode in the chapter Nerpada Ozhagu – be honest. The story is told sequentially, starting with how Yasin found the bag containing money and handed it over to his teacher, who gave it to the police so that it could be returned to the actual owner. It also has the photograph of the superintendent of police Sakthi Ganesan appreciating the honesty of the boy.

“We are very proud that our son’s act was recognised by the government. It will go a long way,” said K Basha, his father. According to him, messages of appreciation and adulation continue to pour in for Yasin.

After learning about the incident, superstar Rajinikanth had met Yasin at his Poes Garden residence to laud him, and promised to sponsor the boy’s education.