The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has directed the Government of Chhattisgarh to pay ₹50,000 as compensation to a minor girl who was allegedly assaulted at a private missionary-run school in Durg district, following a complaint of child abuse and rights violations.
The order, issued on 18 March 2026, came in connection with an incident reported from Mother Teresa English Medium School in Bagdhar village, where a nursery student was allegedly beaten and subjected to punishment by the school principal.
According to the complaint, the 3.5-year-old child was assaulted after greeting the principal with “Radhe Radhe.” It was alleged that the principal taped the child’s mouth and beat her, causing physical and mental distress.
The Commission noted that the incident amounted to prima facie violations of the child’s fundamental rights as well as provisions of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, which prohibits physical punishment and mental harassment of students.
An FIR was registered against the principal under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Juvenile Justice Act, and a chargesheet has been filed before a local court, where the matter is currently under consideration.
Taking note of the findings and the lack of response from state authorities to earlier notices, the NHRC directed the state government to release compensation of ₹50,000 to the victim. The Commission stated that the government is at liberty to recover the amount from the school concerned.
The NHRC also instructed authorities to ensure that the child is admitted to a school of her parents’ choice under the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) quota, in accordance with provisions of the RTE Act.
The case originated from a complaint filed in August 2025, following which the Commission had issued notices to district authorities and sought an inquiry into the incident.
Further compliance has been sought from the Chhattisgarh government, with the Commission directing officials to submit a report within the stipulated timeframe.
Subscribe to our channels on WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram and YouTube to get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.
