In a significant development, the Supreme Court has directed the State of Uttar Pradesh to secure a comprehensive sponsor for the school education of a student involved in the Muzaffarnagar slapping incident. The case, stemming from allegations of communal bias and verbal abuse against a Muslim student by a teacher, has garnered attention for its implications on education rights and communal harmony.
During the hearing on July 26, Senior Advocate Garima Prasad, representing the state, informed the Court that an NGO had expressed willingness to cover the child’s expenses. However, the Court, led by Justice Abhay S Oka and Justice Augustine George Masih, emphasized the need for a clear commitment to support the child’s education until completion, stating that vague assurances would not suffice.
The incident, which led to the student’s relocation to a private school, prompted a public interest litigation filed by activist Tushar Gandhi. The PIL sought a thorough and time-bound investigation, alleging mishandling and communal bias in the initial response.
Earlier directives from the Court had mandated Uttar Pradesh to assign a senior IPS officer for effective prosecution, following the filing of a chargesheet. The Court also addressed an application seeking reimbursement for the child’s educational expenses and other essentials, directing the state to provide a detailed affidavit on compliance.
In pursuit of fulfilling its obligation under the Right to Education Act, which prohibits harassment and discrimination based on religion and caste, the Court has scheduled further hearings for September 2. This comes amidst observations of prima facie failures by the state to uphold the Act’s provisions.
The Court’s proactive stance underscores the broader implications of the case, reflecting on systemic issues within educational institutions and the imperative of safeguarding students’ rights under national statutes.
