Ensuring Sensitivity And Fairness: A Case Of Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh
According to reports, a private school in Uttar Pradesh had its
principal and teacher arrested on August 8, following accusations linking them
to the suicide of a child. In this context, it is crucial to highlight that the
decision should not be made insensitively, although being emotional is obvious
for the loss of a Class 7th child, disregarding the tragedy of parents losing
their child. Nor should it be influenced by the economic status of the principal
and teacher, in order to safeguard their reputation. The decision must
undoubtedly be based on concrete evidence and verifiable facts.
The primary evidence lies within the findings of the forensic department through
the post-mortem report. Conversely, the defence council should focus on evidence
such as the prior criminal records of the individuals involved and the
testimonies of other students in the school regarding the conduct of the
principal and teacher. It is important to underscore that the core issue in this
case is the act of suicide; any potential monetary matters involving students or
the defence should be excluded from consideration. Previous CCTV footage from
the principal's office and classroom may serve as vital evidence to bolster the
case.
One perspective to be taken into account is whether the girl faced any form of
bullying or severe mistreatment. Suicide often results from prolonged periods of
depression. Hence, it should be acknowledged that the decision should not hinge
on a singular instance or circumstance. If the girl was indeed subjected to
harassment by the teacher, it becomes pertinent to investigate whether her
parents had lodged any complaints against her before this incident.
The physical location of the suicide holds a certain relevance, albeit somewhat
reduced, as individuals on the brink of suicide are unlikely to be preoccupied
with the location of the act. Additionally, any familial conflicts or disputes
within her household could play a significant role in the case. It is also
crucial to consider whether there were undue expectations placed on her by her
parents. Consultation with the school counsellor when the girl was in depression
may be one piece of evidence. Interrogations of the class teacher can also be a
dimension of this case.
It shall also be taken into account that the suicide, even if it happened in
school, may be due to bullying by other students in school towards her. In this
case, if the teacher and principal were not informed about the students'
bullying, those students shall be appropriately found guilty. The decision could
only be taken wisely if the witnesses give the true statement, remembering that
they are in court and only their statement shall deliver justice.
Here, the school closure was, for sure, a necessary step, and it shall be noted
that capital punishment has been banned for good. It does not mean if the
student stands wrong and has been scolded verbally or has been made to
understand for the future, taking it in the wrong direction and hurting the
child's ego was not an intention.
He/she shall learn not to repeat it in the future. On the other hand, it does
not mean that considering the child's age and innocence, the school does not
have the right for harassment and physical punishment. Steps and required
actions shall only be taken with proper evidence and arguments in court. Both
sides should have valid proof and not mere statements, considering the
importance of this case.
The ultimate verdict must ensure justice for the young girl. This complex
situation underscores that the case does not inherently favour either the
principal and teacher or the accusers. Meanwhile, the ongoing police
investigation is expected to continue. We can only await and hope for justice to
be delivered.
Law Article in India
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