What happened
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) took suo motu cognizance in connection with allegations that the principal of a government school in Moga district, Punjab sexually harassed girl students. The allegations include inappropriately touching students and threatening them with exam failure if they complained.
Background and earlier position
The incident reportedly came to light after a girl student informed her parents. The parents approached the Village Panchayat and reached the school to confront the principal, who denied the allegation. Several other girl students reportedly made similar charges, and police were also called.
What changed now
NHRC observed that the allegations, if true, raise serious issues of human rights violation. NHRC therefore issued notices to the Punjab Chief Secretary and the Moga Senior Superintendent of Police and sought a detailed report within two weeks.
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