Human Rights Commission Orders Action on Dismal Conditions in Uttar Pradesh Government Schools

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken a strong stance against the neglect of government schools in Gautam Budh Nagar, Uttar Pradesh. Acting upon a complaint filed by Advocate Ashok Agarwal of the Social Jurist NGO, the commission has directed the District Magistrate (DM) to take immediate action to address the deplorable conditions in these schools. This move signifies a significant step towards upholding the fundamental right to education for children in the region.

The complaint, filed with the NHRC, highlighted several serious violations of children’s right to education, as guaranteed under the Constitution of India and the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009.

A Shocking Reality:

The complaint painted a disturbing picture of government schools in Gautam Budh Nagar, revealing a lack of basic amenities that are essential for a conducive learning environment. Hundreds of students were found to be deprived of access to clean drinking water, adequate desks and benches, and even the presence of sweepers to maintain hygiene. The complaint also pointed out the alarming absence of special educators in schools despite the presence of students with special needs, further violating their fundamental rights.

The Need for Urgent Action:

The NHRC, acknowledging the severity of the situation, has instructed the DM to take necessary steps within eight weeks to rectify the issues. The commission has emphasized the need for the DM to engage directly with the complainant and provide regular updates on the progress made in addressing the concerns.

Key Issues Highlighted:

The complaint brought to light several critical issues that need immediate attention. These include:

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Inadequate Infrastructure:

The absence of all-weather school buildings, insufficient classrooms, and a lack of adequate teachers are severely hindering the quality of education provided.

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Limited Resources:

Many students were found to be lacking complete sets of books, while the allocation for uniforms and educational materials was reported to be insufficient.

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Exclusion of Migrant Children:

The complaint revealed the plight of hundreds of children of migrant construction workers who have been denied admission to government schools.

A Call for Change:

The NHRC’s directive to the DM of Gautam Budh Nagar serves as a strong reminder of the government’s responsibility to ensure quality education for all children. It underscores the urgency of addressing the critical issues affecting government schools in the district and ensuring that the right to education is not compromised. The commission’s intervention provides hope for a positive change, paving the way for a brighter future for the students of Gautam Budh Nagar.