PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
After reports emerged of an alleged sex racket operating from the premises of a private school, both Uttarakhand State Commission for Women (USCW) and the State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR) have taken cognizance and directed the Dehradun district magistrate Savin Bansal to ensure a fair, comprehensive and time-bound investigation.
The USCW Chairperson, Kusum Kandwal informed that she directed the DM about the incident and emphasised that such activities are not only condemnable but serve as a serious warning to society. Unfortunately, such despicable actions are taking place in what is considered a “temple of education,” a place held sacred in society. She further noted that she has directed the DM to conduct an impartial and thorough investigation covering all possible angles to uncover the masterminds behind this racket and all those involved. Additionally, she has ordered a comprehensive inspection campaign around all government, non-government and private educational institutions in the district. The commission has demanded a strict investigation of liquor shops, drug dealers and other suspicious locations near schools that may lure the younger generation into immoral activities.
Condemning the incident the SCPCR chairperson Geeta Khanna said that the commission has sent a letter to the DM, Dehradun, directing him to ensure a fair, thorough and timely investigation and to take strict legal action against the culprits. Further, if any administrative or institutional negligence is discovered, appropriate action should be taken against the relevant officials and management of the institutions involved, she informed. She directed the Chief Education Officer (CEO) to provide a detailed report on the efforts being made for the safety of children, school standards and the monitoring of private educational institutions within the district under the National Education Policy.
The SCPCR has also requested a detailed report on the guidelines issued following the Madrasa Board’s closure and the current status of their compliance to ensure that children’s education, safety and rights are not affected in any way. Additionally, the commission also asked for copies of the relevant guidelines to be made available to them, she informed.
