Kolkata School Faces Outrage After Allegedly Expelling Child Over Father's HIV Status
A deeply disturbing incident has emerged from Basirhat in North 24-Parganas, where a five-year-old student was allegedly expelled from his school after it became known that his father is HIV-positive. The family has lodged a formal complaint at the sub-divisional officer's office, sparking widespread outrage and highlighting persistent societal stigma.
Family's Distress and Official Complaint
The child's mother recounted the traumatic experience, stating that her son, unaware of his father's condition, went to school as usual on Tuesday. "He was stopped at the gate and asked to leave," she said. When she demanded an explanation, a teacher allegedly told her, "My husband has a bad illness, so my son cannot stay in the school." This abrupt exclusion has left the family deeply distressed.
Adding to their anguish, the boy's aunt noted that while the local anganwadi centre continued to send daily meals for the child, the school's decision created an atmosphere of rejection. The family has now submitted a detailed complaint to the child development project officer, seeking justice and intervention.
Teacher's Denial and Official Response
In a stark contradiction, the teacher accused of the expulsion has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. "I did not do anything wrong. The child was not expelled. I advised caution. This is a conspiracy against me," she asserted. However, the family's account paints a different picture of systematic exclusion.
An official from the Basirhat SDO office confirmed that a formal complaint has been received and is under investigation. "If the teacher is found guilty, appropriate action will be taken," the official stated, emphasizing the seriousness with which authorities are treating the matter.
Broader Implications and Health Officials' Concerns
This incident underscores the dangerous misconceptions about HIV that continue to pervade society, leading to blatant discrimination. Health officials have repeatedly emphasized that HIV cannot be transmitted through casual contact, yet such stigma persists, affecting even young children.
The child's father is currently undergoing treatment for HIV at a government hospital, adding a layer of vulnerability to the family's situation. The case raises critical questions about:
- The implementation of anti-discrimination policies in educational institutions
- The need for comprehensive awareness programs about HIV transmission
- The protection of children's rights to education regardless of parental health status
- The psychological impact of such exclusion on young students
As the investigation proceeds, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the work still needed to combat prejudice and ensure inclusive environments for all families affected by health conditions.
