Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has responded promptly to reported instances of sexual harassment in a Delhi Government school by ordering the immediate suspension of the teachers and the vice principal involved. The school had witnessed two boys falling victim to sexual assault by their classmates in April this year.
The Delhi education minister, Atishi, revealed that Chief Minister Kejriwal has directed disciplinary measures against the accused individuals who were in violation of sexual harassment and due to their failure to promptly report the incidents to the police.
In a letter addressed to the Education Secretary, Atishi emphasized the paramount importance of ensuring safety and security for all children within schools. She stated, “It is our responsibility to ensure all children are safe and secure in our schools. And if any such instances of child sexual abuse are brought to light, then appropriate legal action has to be taken. We have to take all possible steps to ensure that such an instance is not repeated in our schools.”
Atishi further underscored the need for introspection and corrective measures, asserting the importance of creating a secure environment for children. The Delhi Chief Minister also directed the Directorate of Education to conduct rigorous training for all principals and teachers regarding the provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Several measures were directed by the Chief Minister, including mandatory reporting of such incidents, tools for early identification of abuse, understanding different types of abuse, recognizing the impact of abuse on children, and providing teachers with the necessary skills to support affected students.
Moreover, Kejriwal instructed the Directorate of Education to prepare high-quality reference materials for teachers and principals and to issue comprehensive guidelines for schools to handle cases of abuse while maintaining a supportive environment for the children.
The Delhi Government promptly established an inquiry committee to investigate the alleged sexual assault case involving two minor boys within the government school. The government’s official statement highlighted its commitment to swift and strict actions, assuring that any staff members who were aware of the issue and failed to report it would face stringent consequences.
The Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) also intervened in the matter. DCW Chief Swati Maliwal issued notices to the Delhi Police and the Directorate of Education, seeking detailed action reports on the cases by September 1, 2023. The DCW has taken up the cause to ensure the safety and well-being of the students involved.
