[1]When seven-year-old Sathish (name changed) informed his parents that his teacher Ruban Ravi Kumar of Gnanam primary school in T Nagar abused him sexually in class, they were shocked. They did not expect their child to be victimised by his own teacher. Parents and neighbours in Saidapet entered the school and attacked the teacher on Monday.
In a recent incident, parents caught a male teacher in a government school in Namakkal for abusing girl students. The teacher threatened the students that he would fail them in the exams if they complained. Whether it is a posh school or remote government school, children have become vulnerable to sexual abuse by teachers and other school staff. It’s high time the question of safety of children in school was raised.
Deccan Chronicle talked to experts and activists on how to safeguard children and the steps taken by the government to curb this problem.
Dr P. Manorama, child rights activist, said, “Parents should first listen to children. Whenever there is difference in the behaviour of the child, they should talk to him/her and ask about their problems or difficulties. Parents should tell the child that she/he should not allow anyone to undress them or touch their private parts.” She said teacher selection should not be based fully on academic exams.
“Teachers should be tested by a panel of experts for attitude towards children and how far he/she could be trusted in handling children,” she added.
Former child welfare committee member Zhahurdhin says parents should encourage the child to inform about abuses. “Never turn down complaints from children. Enquire immediately about the problem and support them. Don’t scold them or blame them.”
He said children who feel abused could immediately inform their parents or dial helpline 1098 for help.
Speaking about the initiatives of the government, school education secretary D. Sabitha said, “We plan to conduct awareness sessions for parents to inform them about provisions to lodge child abuse complaints. According to a recent G.O., any teacher found to have abused children would be removed immediately and also not be given retirement benefits.”
What parents should do
1. Talk to children that there are different kinds of touching. Teach them there are safe and unsafe touches.
2. Notice when the child shows any difference in the behaviour
3. When children resist moving with one of the family members or outsiders, ask them about it
4. Always listen to your child and inquire about his/her problems whether it is small or big.
What children should do
1. When you think, you are abused just alert others by screaming
2. Don’t hesitate, inform parents or your well-wishers about the abuse
3.Don’t be alone at home or other public places. Always have company
Links:
[1] http://archive.asianage.com/abuse0jpgcropdisplayjpg-537