Haryana Teacher Slapping Student: Rights Panel Orders Probe

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The Haryana Human Rights Commission (HHRC) has launched an inquiry into allegations that a Class 7 student at a private school in Karnal was repeatedly slapped by a teacher. The commission took action following reports of the incident.

Taking cognisance of reports that a Class 7 student at a private school in Karnal was repeatedly slapped by a teacher, the Haryana Human Rights Commission (HHRC) has ordered a time-bound inquiry into the incident. (Representational photo)

is corporal punishment still a reality in India’s schools? The HHRC’s swift response to reports of a teacher repeatedly slapping a seventh-grade student in Karnal suggests the issue remains a serious concern. The commission has ordered a time-bound investigation into the matter, deeming the alleged actions a “serious violation” of the child’s basic rights.

Commission Orders probe into Alleged Assault

Did you know? – The Right to Education Act, 2009, mandates a child-amiable learning environment and explicitly prohibits all forms of physical and mental punishment in schools across India.

the HHRC directed the karnal district education officer (DEO) to investigate the school’s operations and ensure adherence to laws prohibiting corporal punishment. Justice Lalit Batra (retd),chairperson of the panel,noted the alleged assault occurred in front of classmates after a minor infraction,causing the student mental trauma and insecurity.

What does the law say about corporal punishment in India? both the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, explicitly prohibit corporal punishment and mental harassment.

justice Batra emphasized that schools are both legally and morally obligated to foster a child-friendly environment, asserting that discipline should never rely on fear, violence, or humiliation. He cautioned that any deviation from these principles would result in strict legal consequences.

Pro tip – Schools should implement positive discipline techniques, such as counseling, restorative justice, and peer mediation, to address student misconduct effectively and respectfully.

Legal Frameworks Violated

According to the commission, the teacher’s conduct potentially violates Sections 75 and 82 of the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, and Section 17 of the Right to Education Act, 2009. The HHRC stated the incident highlights a broader failure to implement child-centered disciplinary practices, which are crucial for creating a supportive learning atmosphere.

The school principal has been instructed to submit a thorough report detailing the events and the actions taken to address the situation. The HHRC has requested the findings be submitted at least one week before the next hearing, scheduled for March 18.

Reader question – What role do parents play in ensuring schools adhere to policies prohibiting corporal punishment? Share your thoughts