MARGAO: Recognising the growing need amidst concerns over child protection in Goa schools, Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (GSCPCR) has recommended for immediate and stringent measures to be adopted in response a two recent incidents of child abuse within school environments.
According to the Commission, these cases highlight significant lapses in adherence to the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, and related guidelines, raising grave concerns about child safety and the handling of such incidents by school administrations.
As per information given to the Commission, in the first incident, a teacher at a school was suspended following accusations of child abuse. GSCPCR added that evidence suggested the teacher allegedly engaged in unprofessional chats with the victim through social media platforms.
However, reports indicate undue pressure on the victim’s family to withdraw the complaint, and demands from the school management for the revocation of the teacher’s suspension, GSCPCR added further.
Despite being summoned by GSCPCR, the Commission states that the school administration has failed to acknowledge the gravity of the matter and has flouted the POCSO advisory in force.
Elsewhere, the second incident, according to GSCPCR, involves an MTS (Multi-Tasking Staff) implicated in abuse, with CCTV footage validating the allegations. Shockingly, the victim and her family are reluctant to lodge a formal complaint, leaving the perpetrator unpunished, GSCPCR added. The Commission has recommended the suspension of the said MTS, but more needs to be done.
“These cases are part of a troubling pattern, with multiple instances of child abuse by teachers coming to light over the past two years. The long-term effects on victims are profound and far-reaching, including psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These mental health challenges can severely impact academic performance, social relationships, and overall well-being, leading to a loss of trust in institutions and further isolation,” said GSCPCR Chairperson Peter F Borges.
The Commission further emphasized that the lack of stringent action in such cases undermines the safety and well-being of children and sends a dangerous message that such acts are tolerable.
“Abuse by individuals in authority, especially in educational institutions, is a severe breach of trust and a grave legal violation. The GSCPCR emphasizes that suspending the accused is insufficient and demands comprehensive disciplinary actions and legal proceedings. Coercing victims and their families to withdraw complaints undermines justice and fosters a culture of impunity,” Borges added.
In light of these incidents, the Commission has strongly recommended several measures to be implemented.
First, GSCPCR called for ensuring stronger redressal mechanisms, with the implicated individuals facing not only suspension but also stringent disciplinary actions and legal proceedings. The Commission stressed that mere suspension is inadequate, and robust mechanisms must be in place to address and prevent such cases effectively.
Second, is the appointment of a Special Nodal Officer within the Directorate of Education (For) to specifically handle and report cases of abuse by teachers and school staff. The Commission recommended that this officer should be trained in child protection laws and ensure all cases are reported, investigated, and addressed in accordance with the POCSO Act.
Finally, GSCPCR called for swift and decisive action against any form of pressure or coercion on victims and their families to withdraw complaints. The Commission emphasized that protecting children and ensuring justice for victims is of paramount importance, and that it will not tolerate any attempts to undermine this goal.
