Students were allegedly punished for chanting Jai Shri Ram
Bhopal: A recent incident unfolded at Bharat Mata Convent School in Ganj Basoda, Vidisha, where a group of students in the 6th and 7th grades reportedly faced punishment for chanting religious slogans during a school event on Thursday. The students had enthusiastically chanted ‘Jai Shri Ram.’
In response to the incident, the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) promptly issued a notice, directing the Collector and Superintendent of Police (SP) of Vidisha district to investigate the matter within seven days. The notice highlighted that the students, from classes 6 and 7, were subjected to public punishment for their religious chants. It urged the authorities to register an FIR against the accused under appropriate sections and ensure swift and appropriate action. The NCPCR Chairperson, Priyank Kanoongo, condemned the incident, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation.
Addressing the issue, Kanoongo stated, “During a cultural program at a Missionary Convent School in Ganj Basoda, Vidisha district of Madhya Pradesh, some students got excited and raised slogans of ‘Jai Shri Ram.’ As a result of which, the students were beaten and tortured by the school administration. The entire incident is condemnable, and we have taken cognizance of it.”
In response, the school administration denied the allegations of punishing the students, asserting that they had only advised the students not to break discipline by raising the slogans. A teacher from the school clarified that the incident occurred after a Children’s Day program on November 9. While acknowledging that some children may have raised slogans during the disciplined queue, the teacher emphasized that the students were not punished but rather advised to maintain decorum.
