The Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) has expressed serious concern over the continued reports of corporal punishment and mental harassment in educational institutions and has reiterated its strong opposition to any form of abuse against students.
In a statement, the Union said schools are meant to be safe spaces that nurture learning, dignity and personal growth and any act that violates this principle would not be tolerated.
It informed that the Union has taken cognizance of several such issues upon receiving complaints from students, and it is a matter of concern that similar grievances continue to be reported from time to time.
The union stated that the worrying trend requires immediate attention and corrective measures.
Highlighting the legal provisions protecting children, DNSU reminded all concerned that Section 17 of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009, explicitly prohibits physical punishment and mental harassment of students. The Union pointed out that any violation of this provision may attract disciplinary action under applicable service rules.
It further said acts of cruelty, intimidation, or threats against students may also attract provisions under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code.
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DNSU cautioned that any attempt to threaten, silence, or intimidate students from voicing their concerns would be treated with utmost seriousness, adding such actions amount to abuse of authority and would invite strict scrutiny and necessary action.
The DNSU called upon all educational institutions and authorities to strictly adhere to the law, uphold the rights and dignity of students, and ensure a safe, respectful, and fear-free academic environment at all times. The Union warned that any violation of these legal and ethical standards would not be overlooked.
For complaints or queries, DNSU informed that individuals may contact the Union through its email address at dnsudimapurnagastudents@gmail.com or through its official Instagram handle @dnsu.dimapur.
