A senior teacher at Tripada School in Ahmedabad was suspended on Tuesday after he was found to have slapped a Class 9 student during a classroom session, triggering protests by angry parents and renewing debate over corporal punishment in schools.
Incident during English lecture
The incident took place at Tripada School in the Ghatlodia area of the city. According to information shared by parents, the alleged assault occurred during an English lecture when the teacher, identified as Nishanand, objected to the noise caused by a student using a whitener.
Parents alleged that the teacher asked the student to stand up, took him aside, and slapped him repeatedly in front of classmates. Shocked and distressed, the student reportedly broke down in class following the incident.
Parents protest, demand action
Soon after being informed, the student’s parents rushed to the school premises and demanded strict disciplinary action against the teacher. A group of parents gathered outside the school, insisting not only on immediate punishment but also on a public apology from the accused teacher.
The incident led to heightened tension outside the campus, with parents expressing concern over the safety and emotional well-being of children in the school.
CCTV footage confirms assault
Responding to the complaint, the school management reviewed CCTV footage of the classroom in the presence of the parents. Sources said the footage clearly showed the teacher slapping the student, confirming the allegations.
Following the review, the school placed the teacher under suspension with immediate effect.
School management issues statement
School administrator Archit Bhatt said the complaint was treated with seriousness and investigated without delay.
“The CCTV footage confirmed that the teacher had slapped the student. When questioned, the teacher failed to provide any valid justification for his behaviour. Hence, he was suspended,” Bhatt said.
He added that although the teacher was senior and had joined the school only six months ago, such conduct would not be tolerated under any circumstances. The management, he said, remains committed to maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment.
Corporal punishment under scrutiny
The incident has once again highlighted concerns around corporal punishment in schools, which is prohibited under child protection laws and education guidelines in India. Parents and child rights advocates continue to urge schools to adopt stricter monitoring, sensitisation of staff, and zero-tolerance policies to prevent physical or emotional harm to students.