In November 2023, over 60 girls from a government school in Jind, Haryana, India, came forward to accuse the principal of sexual harassment and assault. The principal was arrested and charged under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
In a controversial move, the Haryana education department has appointed a teacher facing sexual exploitation charges as the acting principal of a government school where over 60 girls have accused the principal of sexual assault. The teacher, who was previously accused of sexual exploitation four years ago, is now in charge of the school while the principal is under investigation.
Activist Criticism
Activists have criticized the appointment, saying that it shows a lack of sensitivity towards the victims of sexual assault. They have also called for the teacher to be removed from his position.
Calls for Government Action
The appointment of the teacher as acting principal has raised concerns about the handling of the sexual harassment case. Activists are urging the government to take a more serious approach to the issue and ensure that justice is served for the victims.
“We urge the government to reconsider this appointment,” said another activist. “The teacher should not be allowed to have any position of authority at a school where students have been sexually assaulted.”
The case came to light on October 27, 2023, when the Haryana State Commission for Women intervened and asked the police to take action against the principal, who was accused of molesting, blackmailing, and threatening the girl students. The commission also directed the Education Department to suspend the principal and initiate a departmental inquiry against him. The commission also sought a report from the district administration on the matter.
The police, on the other hand, registered a case against the principal under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, and formed a Special Investigation Team to probe the matter. The police also added additional charges against the principal after victims recorded their statements under section 164 of the Code of Criminal Procedure.
The case has raised serious questions about the safety and security of the girl students in the school and the role of the district officials in handling the matter. The case also highlights the need for sensitization and awareness among the students, parents, and teachers about the issue of sexual harassment and abuse in schools.