Mangaluru: The Karnataka State School Development and Monitoring Committee Coordination Central Forum (SDMCCCF) has approached the Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights in Bengaluru, seeking an impartial investigation into allegations that the headmaster of Tiruvail-Vamanjoor Government Higher Primary School in Dakshina Kannada district mentally harassed students through derogatory language.
In a complaint submitted on October 24, the forum urged the commission to intervene and ensure that students have a safe, respectful and fear-free learning environment.
Parents allege use of insulting language
According to the complaint, parents and members of the School Development and Monitoring Committee (SDMC) have alleged that the headmaster uses words such as “loafer” and “rascal” while addressing students.
The parents have expressed concern that the alleged use of such language could affect the children’s self-esteem, confidence and mental well-being. Some children have reportedly begun using the same words at home, according to the complaint.
The forum stated that teachers have a responsibility to correct students’ mistakes, encourage good behaviour and instil values without resorting to language that could undermine children’s dignity.
It stressed that students should be treated with respect and provided with an environment conducive to learning and emotional development.
The allegations are contained in the complaint submitted to the commission and have not been independently established.
SDMC had sought headmaster’s transfer
The complaint states that the SDMC had previously approached the local education authorities and requested the headmaster’s transfer.
However, parents have reportedly expressed dissatisfaction over the alleged delay in action. They have also questioned whether the headmaster’s position as president of the District Headmasters’ Association could be influencing the authorities’ response.
The forum has called for the allegations and the handling of the earlier representation to be examined impartially. It has urged the child rights commission to seek details from the concerned education authorities regarding the steps taken so far.
Forum invokes child rights safeguards
Citing provisions of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, and relevant constitutional safeguards, the forum has requested a detailed inquiry into the matter.
It has urged the commission to record statements from the students concerned, their parents and SDMC members to establish the facts.
The forum has also requested the commission to obtain an official report on the action taken by the education department and recommend appropriate disciplinary measures if the allegations are substantiated.
In addition, it has sought consideration of the SDMC’s request for the headmaster’s transfer, stating that the interests and well-being of the students should remain the priority.
Protection against pressure or retaliation sought
The complaint has also highlighted the need to protect the children and parents who raised the concerns. The forum has urged the authorities to ensure that they are not subjected to pressure, intimidation or retaliation for bringing the matter to the notice of the authorities.
The complaint was submitted by Moidin Kutty, state president of the Karnataka State SDMC Coordination Central Forum (Regd), who appealed to the commission to take appropriate steps in response to the allegations.
The forum has called for a fair inquiry and suitable action based on the findings, with the stated objective of ensuring that students can pursue their education in a respectful and supportive school environment.