PANAJI
The Directorate of Education (DoE) has raised serious concern about several instances of corporal punishment in schools, despite absolute ban as per Right to Education (RTE) Act. The educational institutions are now directed to adopt Zero Tolerance Policy towards corporal punishment failing which DoE has warned that the act would be dealt with seriously.
In view of the recent incident wherein a primary school boy was assaulted by two teachers, the DoE has issued series of guidelines to the schools to ensure that their teaching and non-teaching staff refrained from inflicting corporal punishment on students. Both the teachers, who are currently out on bail, are placed under suspension.
In a circular issued to heads of all government, government aided and unaided primary, secondary and higher secondary schools, Director Shailesh Zingade has pointed out that the Section 17 of the RTE Act 2009 imposes an absolute ban on corporal punishment and also prohibits physical punishment and mental harassment to child and prescribes disciplinary action to be taken against the guilty person.
“It has come to the attention of the Directorate that despite existing regulations, several instances of corporal punishment in schools have been reported. This is a matter of grave concern as it directly affects the physical and psychological wellbeing of students and also hinders the learning and development,” he said.
The educational institutions are directed to adopt Zero Tolerance Policy towards corporal punishment and any violation of the policy to be addressed.
“Schools must establish a transparent mechanism for students to report any grievances related to corporal punishment. These complaints should be monitored diligently and immediate action must be taken,” Director said.
Schools are also directed to organize regular training sessions and workshops for teaching and non-teaching staff to emphasize positive and constructive disciplinary practices and counseling services for students to promote a supportive and nurturing educational environment.
Zingade said that the DoE will conduct periodic audits to ensure compliance, and if any institution found in violation, will face appropriate disciplinary action. “Deviation from the guidelines will be dealt seriously and strict measures will be taken against the violators as per law,” he said.
DoE has pointed out that Section 75 of the Juvenile Justice Act prescribes punishment for cruelty to child, whenever a child is assaulted, abused, etc, by any person employed by or managing an organization, which is entrusted with the case and protection of children, the punishment would be rigorous imprisonment up to three years and fine up to Rs five lakhs and the same may extend up to ten years if the child develops mental illness or has risk to life.
