Chandigarh, Sep 24 (NationPress) The Haryana Human Rights Commission has initiated suo motu cognizance following a media report regarding the punishment of a Class 5 student at a private institution in Sonipat district and has mandated an inquiry.

It has been alleged that the school principal in Ridana village imposed humiliating and inhuman punishment on the minor for failing to submit her homework.

The purported punishment involved the student performing 50 sit-ups, cleaning the classroom floor and the area outside the UKG class, while enduring public mockery from UKG students who were made to chant "shame-shame" at her.

Moreover, the principal allegedly issued a threat that if the student did not complete her homework again, her head would be shaved.

As a consequence, the student experienced severe mental trauma, which hindered her ability to attend school and necessitated psychological treatment.

The commission's bench, consisting of Chairperson Justice (retd) Lalit Batra and members Kuldip Jain and Deep Bhatia, underscored that every child is entitled to education in a safe, dignified, and nurturing environment.

In alignment with the state's motto -- 'Bachpan Bachao, Shiksha Apnao' -- it is the responsibility of every educational institution to shield children from all forms of mental and physical abuse. A school should serve as a space for learning, encouragement, and personality development, rather than a site of fear, humiliation, or punishment that induces trauma.

The mental well-being of the minor is of utmost importance, and such degrading conduct is fundamentally opposed to the purpose of education.

According to the commission's directive, if the allegations are substantiated, these actions would represent direct violations of the fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution of India.

The commission further stated that under the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act of 2009, every child has the right to education in a safe, child-friendly, and dignified environment devoid of corporal punishment or mental harassment.

If the allegations are validated, this would be a serious infringement of statutory rights and an abuse of authority by the school administration, adversely affecting the student’s right to education and protection.

The commission also highlighted that the responsibility for a child's upbringing extends beyond parents to school authorities.

Positive parenting and child-centered discipline encompass guidance, empathy, and non-violent correction, rather than fear and humiliation. Only such an environment fosters safe and supportive education.

The commission noted, "The present incident reflects a serious failure to uphold these principles, violating the student's dignity, mental health, and fundamental rights," asserting that the alleged actions represent a clear breach of the minor student's basic human rights, including the right to education, protection from physical and mental abuse, and dignity.

This incident poses a significant threat to the student's mental health and future development, necessitating immediate corrective measures.

Puneet Arora, the Information and Public Relations Officer, announced on Wednesday that the commission has mandated a fair and thorough inquiry into the situation.

The inquiry will include statements from the complainant, the principal, teaching staff, other relevant witnesses, and the psychologist treating the student. The District Education Officer of Sonipat has been instructed to provide a detailed report.