Haryana orders state-wide school safety audits after Panchkula incident

The Haryana government has ordered a comprehensive safety audit of all schools across the state following an incident in Panchkula where a six-year-old girl with special needs was allegedly assaulted by a student. The child is currently receiving treatment at PGI Chandigarh.

Education Minister Mahipal Dhanda stated that negligence regarding child safety will not be tolerated and promised strict legal action against those found responsible. The government has committed to covering the full cost of the child's medical treatment and has assigned a senior officer to support the family.

A five-member inquiry committee, led by the Additional Deputy Commissioner, has been established to investigate the incident in Panchkula. The panel includes the District Education Officer, the District Child Protection Officer, a police officer, and a special educator or child psychologist. The committee has seven days to submit a report after reviewing CCTV footage to determine if there were lapses in supervision or delays in providing medical aid. The investigation will also assess compliance with the Ministry of Education’s School Safety and Security Guidelines, 2021, and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.