BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 3rd July 2024: The Director of Elementary Education department Smita Mol has suspended headmaster (Primary) Binay Priya Chakma of Depacherra SB School under Pecharthal Inspector of Schools, who is accused of subjecting a student to severe physical punishment. The incident took place on June 28 last has sparked controversy under the provisions of the RTE Act, 2009.
In an official order, Director Smita Mol informed “The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009 strictly prohibits physical punishment and mental harassment.” Section 17(1) of the act highlights the detrimental effects of such practices on students’ mental and physical well-being, while section 17(2) deems it a punishable offence.
Furthermore, the Juvenile Justice Care and Protection of Children Act, 2015, reinforces these safeguards, particularly in ‘alternative care settings’ for children, as outlined in Article 39(e) and 39(f).
Consequently, in accordance with the Central Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1965, Binay Priya Chakma, HM (Primary), has been placed under immediate suspension. “This action is necessary to uphold the sanctity of educational environments and ensure the safety of all students,” emphasized Smita Mol, Director of the Elementary Education department.
During the suspension period, Binay Priya Chakma, HM (Primary), is mandated to remain at the Education Inspectorate, Pecharthal, with restrictions on leaving without prior authorization from the undersigned authority.
\