Institutional negligence has come under the spotlight after the Haryana Human Rights Commission (HHRC) ordered an independent probe into allegations of racial bullying and physical assault on a minor student at a government school in Gurugram. In a detailed order dated May 3, the commission described the incident as a serious failure of school and police systems and demanded accountability from multiple parties, including educators and law enforcement.
The student, enrolled at Government Model Sanskriti Primary School in Sushant Lok-2, Sector 43, was allegedly targeted with racially charged bullying for over 20 days, culminating in a physical attack on December 19, 2024. The assault left the child injured in the left eye, and despite repeated parental complaints, no preventive action was taken.
A Pattern of Ignored Warnings
According to the HHRC, the student’s parent had raised several concerns verbally with class teacher Seema Saroha, but the issues were brushed aside. The commission noted this inaction amounted to more than just neglect—it was a failure to protect a child from sustained abuse, thus violating their fundamental and human rights.
Following the physical assault, the situation became even more distressing. The school principal was reportedly unavailable, while the acting principal not only refused to intervene but also withheld contact details for further escalation. This lack of response forced the parents to seek help from the local police.
Police Response Criticised
However, the HHRC has criticised the police’s approach as “superficial”, with no meaningful follow-up. Justice Lalit Batra, Chairperson of the HHRC, condemned the overall handling of the incident, stating, “The failure of both the school authorities and the police to respond adequately shows a clear pattern of institutional negligence.”
He further warned that such neglect could have long-lasting effects on the child’s emotional and psychological wellbeing, especially in cases rooted in racial discrimination and marginalisation.
Action Ordered by HHRC
In light of these events, the HHRC has directed the District Elementary Education Officer (DEEO) of Gurugram to constitute an independent inquiry committee, with a comprehensive report due by July 30. The local Station House Officer (SHO), under the Gurugram Police Commissioner, has also been instructed to submit a detailed status report outlining the police’s actions following the complaint.
Moreover, both the class teacher and the acting principal have been ordered to provide written responses to the allegations. All documentation and reports are to be forwarded through the Director of Elementary Education, Haryana, based in Panchkula.
Dr. Puneet Arora, Protocol and Information & Public Relations Officer, confirmed these steps, assuring that the HHRC will continue to closely monitor the progress of the case.
Community Reaction and Broader Implications
The incident has sparked outrage among community members, child rights groups, and education activists. Many argue that the case illustrates a broader failure of public education institutions to address bullying and discrimination, especially when it involves students from marginalised backgrounds.
Parents and activists have demanded stronger safeguards and stricter enforcement of anti-bullying policies in schools. “This is not just one case—it reflects a dangerous pattern,” said a local parent. “Children cannot be expected to thrive in environments where they’re unsafe and unheard.”
In closing, the HHRC stressed that public schools must reflect the values of inclusivity, diversity, and protection. It urged state institutions to not only conduct internal reviews but also implement proactive measures to ensure that no child has to suffer in silence again.
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