Haryana Human Rights Commission Takes Cognisance of Severe Corporal Punishment Case in Karnal School
The Haryana Human Rights Commission (HHRC) has initiated formal proceedings in a deeply concerning case involving the corporal punishment of a minor student at a school in Karnal. The commission has described the incident as a serious infringement upon the fundamental and statutory rights of children, warranting immediate and thorough investigation.
Details of the Alleged Incident
According to the official complaint registered with the commission, a Class VII student was subjected to repeated slapping by a teacher within the school premises. This disciplinary action was reportedly administered in front of other students for what has been described as a minor mistake. The complaint highlights that this act resulted in severe mental trauma, profound fear, humiliation, and a pervasive sense of insecurity for the child involved.
Commission's Serious View and Legal Observations
The HHRC, under the leadership of Justice Lalit Batra, Chairperson, has viewed these allegations with the utmost seriousness. In a detailed order, Justice Batra explicitly noted that such conduct represents a gross violation of key child protection legislation.
The commission cited specific breaches of:
- Sections 75 and 82 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.
- Section 17 of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009.
These statutes strictly prohibit all forms of corporal punishment, mental harassment, and humiliation directed at children. The chairperson emphasised the legal and moral obligation of educational institutions to provide a safe, dignified, and child-friendly environment. He firmly stated that discipline cannot be enforced through fear, violence, or humiliation, and any deviation from this principle will necessitate strict legal action.
Directives Issued by the Commission
In response to this grave matter, the Haryana Human Rights Commission has issued a series of directives to ensure a comprehensive and impartial inquiry.
The following authorities have been instructed to submit their detailed reports at least one week prior to the next hearing, scheduled for March 18, 2026:
- The Deputy Commissioner of Karnal.
- The Superintendent of Police, Karnal.
- The District Education Officer (DEO), Karnal.
- The District Elementary Education Officer (DEEO), Karnal.
- The Principal of the concerned school.
The commission has specifically mandated the District Education Officer, in coordination with the District Elementary Education Officer, to conduct a thorough, unbiased, and time-bound inquiry into the overall functioning of the school. This investigation aims to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the incident and assess the school's compliance with child protection norms.
Specific Requirements from the School Principal
The principal of the school has been directed to provide a detailed factual report encompassing several critical aspects. This report must include:
- A clear sequence of events leading to the incident.
- Details of any action already taken or proposed against the teacher involved.
- The specific safeguards and measures adopted to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
- A firm and unambiguous assurance that the affected child will not face any form of bias, harassment, or victimisation in the future.
The HHRC has underscored the lasting adverse impact such acts of corporal punishment can have on the psychological well-being and dignity of children. This case highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and strict enforcement of laws designed to protect young students within the educational system.
