Vasai School Principal & Supervisor Charged For Ignoring Teacher's Sexual Assault On 14-Year-Old Student

Pelhar police have charged a Vasai school principal and supervisor for not reporting a teacher's sexual assault on a 14-year-old student, according to Hindustan Times (HT). The incident came to light almost 10 days after the teacher's arrest. The principal and supervisor failed to act when the minor disclosed the abuse.

Failure To Act

The victim's brother revealed in HT that the school authorities ignored his sister's initial complaint of molestation in 2022. He stated, "If the principal had taken action in 2022, my sister would not have been raped." The girl eventually confided in her parents, leading to the teacher's arrest.

The accused teacher allegedly blackmailed and sexually assaulted the girl in March 2024. He threatened to kill her if she informed her parents. The girl finally disclosed the abuse after experiencing severe pain upon returning home from tuition.

Medical Negligence

The school authorities did not arrange for a medical examination even after the girl fainted at school following the assault. This negligence prompted further investigation into their role in the incident.

Senior police inspector Jitendra Vankoti stated, "The parents of the girl told us that in 2022, she had complained to the school supervisor that the teacher had touched her inappropriately. But they ignored the complaint and beat up the girl's brother who went to confront the teacher."

Legal Action Against School Officials

A case has been registered against the principal and supervisor under section 21 (2) of the Protection of Children Against Sexual Offences Act and sections 115 (2) and 351(2) of Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita for threatening and criminal intimidation. They will be presented before court on Friday.

The victim's brother has called for a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to be set up, claiming that other girls may also have been victimised by the same teacher.

The police began investigating after statements from the girl's family highlighted significant lapses by school authorities. These included ignoring complaints and failing to provide necessary medical care when required.

The accused teacher was arrested after he continued his abusive behaviour despite previous complaints being made against him. The school's failure to act sooner has raised serious concerns about their handling of such sensitive issues.

This case underscores the importance of prompt action by educational institutions when dealing with allegations of abuse. It highlights how neglecting such complaints can lead to further harm and trauma for victims.