Madras HC directs Tamil Nadu govt to implement guidelines against corporal punishment in schools

NEW DELHI: The Madras High Court has directed the Tamil Nadu government to implement the Guidelines for Elimination of Corporal Punishment in Schools (GECP) as outlined by the NCPCR.
Justice SM Subramaniam observed that corporal punishment was unacceptable, as outlined in Section 17(1) of the Rights of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act 2009.The court emphasised that resorting to corporal punishment was not a viable approach to guide children; rather, efforts should be focused on treating children with dignity and respect.
Justice Subramaniam issued this directive to the Principal Secretary of the School Education Department during recent interim proceedings on a petition brought forth by Kamatchi Shanker Arumugam. Arumugam's petition aimed to compel authorities to implement the NCPCR's GECP.
The judge said the guidelines were directed to be communicated to all the educational institutions across Tamil Nadu and to the District Educational Authorities, who in turn, were directed to sensitise the authorities, so as to follow the guidelines scrupulously to protect the mental health of the children studying in the schools.
To reinforce compliance, the judge mandated that district educational authorities conduct seminars and awareness campaigns on the NCPCR guidelines. Any complaints regarding non-compliance were to be diligently addressed by competent authorities. Furthermore, officials found negligent were to face disciplinary action under the Service Rules.
The court said that its ruling wasn't just about eliminating corporal punishment in schools. It also extended to addressing any form of indirect harassment or situations that could harm children's mental well-being. The competent educational authorities were directed to take note of these issues and implement appropriate remedial measures.
The court noted that it's important for children to thrive in a safe and nurturing environment where they can freely express themselves. Stressing the diversity among children, the court observed that a one-size-fits-all approach to parenting or upbringing isn't appropriate. Instead, there should be a greater openness to understanding and responding to the individual needs of each child.
It's important to listen to children and treat them kindly and respectfully, the court said. They want adults to pay attention to what children have to say and think about what they need.