Haryana Human Rights Commission Takes Action on School Punishment Incident

The Haryana Human Rights Commission has taken action following reports of girl students being subjected to humiliating punishment at a government school in Hisar district. The Commission's inquiry highlights serious concerns regarding the dignity and psychological well-being of the students involved. With the next hearing scheduled for May 12, the Commission is investigating the incident's implications under human rights standards and the Juvenile Justice Act. This case raises critical questions about the treatment of students in educational institutions and the responsibilities of school authorities in ensuring a safe environment.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 19, 2026, 13:21 IST

Haryana Commission Responds to Disturbing School Incident

Chandigarh, March 19: The Haryana Human Rights Commission has launched suo motu proceedings following a media report about an incident at a government school in Hisar district. Reports indicate that female students were allegedly subjected to the 'squat punishment' and paraded around the school grounds.

The incident reportedly took place at the Government High School located in Jagan village, Agroha block, where the students faced this degrading punishment.

Three videos documenting the incident were sent via email to the District Education Officer's office.

In response to these serious allegations, the District Education Officer has formed an inquiry committee. However, the full Commission, which includes Chairperson Justice Lalit Batra and members Kuldip Jain and Deep Bhatia, stated that if the claims are substantiated, it would represent a severe breach of the dignity, safety, and psychological welfare of the affected students.

The Commission firmly declared that any type of physical punishment or mental harassment disguised as discipline is intolerable. 'Public humiliation of girl students not only infringes on their human rights but also contradicts national initiatives like Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao,' they emphasized.

They further stressed that educational institutions must ensure a safe, respectful, and nurturing environment for all children. 'Such incidents can negatively impact students' mental health and diminish their faith in the educational system. This situation also raises significant concerns regarding international human rights standards.'

The rights commission's order underscored that the responsibility for nurturing children extends beyond parents to school authorities as well. 'Disciplinary practices should be positive, child-centric, and focus on empathy, guidance, and non-violent correction.'

Initially, the allegations suggest a violation of the fundamental human rights of the students, particularly their right to dignity, which is a crucial aspect of Article 21 of the Constitution, as noted by the Commission.

The human rights body has scheduled the next hearing for May 12 and has inquired with the Superintendent of Police about whether any complaints or FIRs have been filed, the current status of the investigation, and the relevance of the Juvenile Justice Act provisions.