A 12-year-old seminary student died after allegedly being subjected to severe torture by a teacher at a madrassa in Lahore’s Burki area, police and family members said on Saturday.

According to police, the victim, identified as Ali Haider, was a resident of Bahawalnagar who had come to Lahore to pursue religious education at the seminary.

The family alleged that Ali Haider was beaten by madrassa teacher Qari Ghulam Rasool for failing to attend a religious gathering around eight days ago.

According to the victim’s relatives, the boy remained in critical condition and battled for his life for eight days before succumbing to his injuries.

They further alleged that the assault left the child with multiple fractures in his arms and legs.

Police said the body had been shifted to a morgue for a post-mortem examination and that legal proceedings had been initiated.

Authorities said the accused teacher had fled and had not yet been taken into custody.

The victim’s father has submitted an application to the Burki police station seeking registration of a case against the suspect.

“My child was subjected to great injustice, and I want justice,” the father said.

Police said an investigation into the incident was underway and that efforts were being made to apprehend the suspect.