MCPCR takes corrective measures in corporal punishment case
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, August 06 2024: In a move aimed at promoting reformative justice, Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MCPCR) has announced a set of corrective measures in response to a recent corporal punishment incident that took place at Ima Inaobi Ningshing Maheikol School, Tentha, in Thoubal district.

Instead of resorting to punitive action under the criminal justice system, the Commission has opted for a more educative and accountable approach, reflecting a commitment to restorative justice.

In a press statement, MCPCR chairman Keisham Pradipkumar informed that the school authority has assured full compliance with the measures prescribed by the Commission, which are designed to deliver reformative outcomes while also educating the involved parties on child rights and positive disciplinary practices.

Under the MCPCR's directive, the teacher involved in the incident will undergo rigorous educational training covering essential child rights legislation, including the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, and The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 (RTE Act) .

The female teacher involved in the case will also be imparted lesson on positive engagement techniques and alternative measures to corporal punishment; participate in sessions with trained child counsellors and clinical psychologists to equip her with necessary knowledge and skills to effectively address children's behavioural issues in a constructive manner; and contribute half her one-month salary towards medical treatment of the affected child.

MCPCR has also mandated the school management to take immediate steps to prevent such incidents in the future and instructed the school appoint a trained child counsellor within a month and organise induction training for all teachers on alternatives to corporal punishment.

The Commission reiterated that counselling services are an essential component of a child's education, serving as a preventive measure against unruly behaviours and substance abuse.

MCPCR also reminded all school authorities across the state about legal prohibitions against corporal punishment, as outlined in the RTE Act and JJ Act.

These laws recognise that corporal punishment unequivocally violates a child's constitutional rights to life and dignity, and can cause significant harm to their physical and emotional well-being.

The Commission strongly condemned any form of corporal punishment, terming it as illegal, unproductive, and brutal.

Emphasising that children are the future and are particularly vulnerable, MCPCR highlighted the longterm psychological damage that can result from such punishment.

In its statement, the Commission urged schools to adopt universally accepted measures of positive engagement, provide child counselling services, seek the help of experts, parents, and guardians, and apply non-violent, child-friendly strategies to manage behavioural issues.

Corporal punishment should never be defended or encouraged in any form, including on social media platforms, the Commission said.

MCPCR also clarified that its stance does not excuse or justify any unruly behaviour by children in schools.

Instead, the focus is on the tools used to discipline children, advocating for legally permissible and appropriate methods.

It also endorsed alternative ways of disciplining and educating children that align with child rights and positive development principles.

Comment