Mandya Minister Directs Probe Into Alleged Schoolchildren Masonry Incident
District Minister S Cheluvarayaswamy has issued a directive to the zilla panchayat chief executive officer, demanding a comprehensive report regarding the alleged incident of schoolchildren being engaged in masonry work at a government Higher Primary School (HPS) in Nalkundi village, located within the Nagamangala constituency.
Minister Clarifies Position on Student Activities
Addressing reporters in Maddur, Minister Cheluvarayaswamy stated that he has already sought detailed information from the concerned officials. He emphasized that involving students in activities such as planting saplings, campus cleaning, and minor maintenance work within the school compound should not be automatically interpreted as a violation of regulations or child protection norms.
"A lapse would arise only if children were taken outside the school premises for labour in private fields or subjected to any form of exploitation," the minister clarified, drawing a clear distinction between permissible educational activities and potential exploitation.
Eco Club Initiative Under Scrutiny
According to reports, the students were participating in Eco Club activities, where they were seen holding plants and assisting workers within the school premises. Mandya District Deputy Director of Public Instruction (DDPI) Lokesha informed that this initiative was part of an Eco Club project undertaken at a cost of Rs 9,000.
"Students were within the school premises, holding plants and equipment. Nevertheless, we will conduct an inquiry into the matter," DDPI Lokesha stated. He further assured that none of the students were forcibly involved in any work, and those who were found helping were doing so voluntarily.
Strict Action Promised If Violations Found
While defending the educational value of such hands-on activities, Minister Cheluvarayaswamy made it clear that the administration will not tolerate any misuse. He asserted that if the inquiry reveals any improper intent, negligence, or violation of child protection norms, strict action will be taken against those responsible.
The directive for a formal report underscores the government's commitment to ensuring child safety while balancing it with practical, environment-focused educational programs. The outcome of the investigation is awaited to determine whether the activities crossed ethical or legal boundaries.
