Parents of students at a government school in Palani have expressed outrage after reports surfaced that some teachers forced children from Classes 6 to 12 to sweep classrooms and clear shrubs following heavy rains. The incident has sparked concerns about child safety, exploitation, and the overall conditions of school maintenance.
Parents were shocked to learn that their children had been made to perform manual labour, which they argue is not only inappropriate but also a form of exploitation.
In defence, the teachers claimed that the decision was made to maintain cleanliness and manage the aftermath of the rains, which had left classrooms and the school grounds in disarray. However, parents and child rights advocates remain unconvinced, insisting that schools handle such tasks without involving students.
The District Education Officer (DEO) has promised swift action, assuring parents that an investigation is underway. The incident has raised broader concerns about inadequate school maintenance and the potential risks of child labour. Parents and activists call for better oversight to ensure students are not placed in dangerous or exploitative situations. In response, local authorities face pressure to review school maintenance policies and implement measures to prevent such incidents from recurring.
As the education department conducts its inquiry, the teachers involved may face disciplinary action if found guilty of violating protocols. The investigation will also examine the broader issue of school cleanliness and whether additional resources are needed to ensure proper maintenance without involving students.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges many government schools face in India, where insufficient resources and poor infrastructure often impose undue burdens on staff and students. The outcome of the investigation is likely to shape future policy decisions regarding school maintenance and child protection in Tamil Nadu.