Are Teachers allowed to hit students in India?

Many parents and students often ask one important question: Are teachers allowed to hit students in India? The answer is no. Indian law clearly prohibits the physical punishment of any kind as well as mental harassment in schools. The country’s goal is to have a safe, respectful and positive learning environment for all children.

What the Law Says

The Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009 plays the biggest role in putting an end to corporal punishment in India.

• Section 17 (1) provides that no child shall be subjected to physical punishment or mental harassment in school.
• Section 17 (2) adds that any teacher who violates this rule will be subject to disciplinary action. Schools have the power to suspend or even kick a teacher off duty.

Other laws support this rule as well. The Juvenile Justice Act, 2015 has considered cruelty against children as crime. Teachers can also be brought against them under the Indian Penal Code or the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, depending upon the nature of the case. These laws ensure that kids are at all times shielded from harm.

What Counts as Corporal Punishment

Corporal punishment covers all those actions that affect physical or emotional pain on a child. This includes:

• Hitting, slapping or pinching
• Beating with stick or other object
• Pulling hair or ears
• Insulting, shouting or humiliating a child
• Forcing a child to stand for extended periods or kneel as punishment

All such actions are illegal in schools all over India.

What Happens If a Teacher Hits a Student

If the teacher hits a student, then serious consequences follow. Schools have the opportunity to take severe internal action, such as suspension or dismissal. The teacher can also find himself facing criminal charges, fines or even jail. In extreme cases, parents can make complaints and child rights bodies can intervene to ensure justice.

What Parents and Students Can Do

If a child does experience any form of punishment, parents had better make their move quickly. They should:

• Discuss the issue with the school authorities
• Collect some proof in the form of photos or statements
• File a police complaint, if necessary
• Contact child rights bodies or use the child helpline 1098

Conclusion

Teachers in India are not allowed to hit and hurt students in any manner. The law is very protective for children and it encourages positive discipline. When schools follow these rules, the children will feel safe, confident and ready to learn.