In Haryana's Jind district, 50 girls came forward and accused their school principal of harassment. The principal has now been taken into custody in response to a deadline set by the Haryana State Commission for Women, prompting law enforcement to take action. Earlier, it was reported by The Indian Express, that the principal of the government girls' school was suspended on October 27 following allegations of sexual harassment involving students.
The girls who suffered mistreatment accused the school principal of inappropriate behaviour within his office, including claims that he had manipulated the office door, resulting in several girls discontinuing their education.
Authorities had established a committee to investigate the matter. Additionally, it's been reported that a group of female students from the school recently sent letters to the Prime Minister's Office and the National Commission for Women, outlining their distressing experiences. An inquiry committee, led by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate of the school's location, has been appointed to examine the accusations.
Haryana State Commission for Women Action
The State Commission for Women had received 60 written grievances from female students concerning the principal. Among these, 50 complaints were from girls who reported instances of physical abuse by the accused. Ten other girls, in their complaints, indicated awareness of the principal's involvement in such activities.
The survivors claimed that the accused would summon them to his office and engage in lewd or indecent actions.
The first complaint was received on September 13 and forwarded to the police. But reportedly, there was no action until October 29. An FIR was then registered but no arrest was made. The accused is now absconding.
Police Action
An FIR has been registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and Section 354 of the Indian Penal Code, and an investigation is currently in progress.
Jind Deputy Commissioner M Imran Raza stated that a committee, led by the Uchana Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) and two female officials, has been established to provide a report within two days.
As mentioned by the Times Of India, legal experts have emphasised the necessity for swift action when a crime involves minors. Section 21 mandates that failing to report or record such an offence, as outlined in subsections (1) and (2) of Section 19, may result in imprisonment, a fine, or both. The district police and officials could potentially face legal consequences for not filing an FIR under the POCSO Act.
Suggested Reading: How Can We Tackle Menace Of Child Sexual Abuse Online? NHRC Advices
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