The Haryana State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (HSCPCR) has directed the principal of Government Girls Senior Secondary School in Jacobpura, Gurgaon, to appear before it on May 14. This follows allegations by 27 Class IX female students that a teacher made inappropriate comments, used objectionable gestures, and threatened them with academic penalties for protesting.
Suo Motu Action by Commission
The commission took suo motu cognisance of the matter based on media reports. It noted that the allegations prima facie attract the stringent provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012. The principal has been asked to produce the school complaint register, details of any internal inquiries, and records of the school management committee and child protection committee.
Demand for Transparency
In a notice issued on Tuesday, the panel demanded transparency regarding any communication with higher authorities and specific steps taken by the school administration since the matter came to light. The commission warned school authorities against pressuring or intimidating any child involved, stating that non-compliance or attempts to suppress the investigation would invite legal action.
Background of the Complaint
The issue surfaced after students collectively submitted handwritten complaints to the school administration. They alleged that despite multiple complaints, the matter was not addressed promptly. The school principal initially denied receiving any formal complaint.
School Management's Response
In a brief response, the school management claimed the teacher was mentally unwell. However, the education department has not accepted this explanation, stating that no conclusion has been reached and the case is being examined from all angles.
Teacher Transferred
Following the complaint, block education officer Rakesh Sharma said the teacher has been transferred from the school to the block education office. He is barred from entering the school premises and will work from the office until the investigation is complete. Officials said the department is closely monitoring the case, with a series of meetings at the district level to review developments.
Students' Accounts
Students said the first written complaint was submitted to principal Sushil Kumar on April 24. Multiple students individually documented their concerns, alleging that the teacher had unnecessary, objectionable conversations with them and pressured them to ignore textbooks and focus solely on his remarks. They claimed that any resistance was met with threats of deducting marks or failing them in that subject. Sources said several students broke down while recounting their experiences during questioning.
