Tamil Nadu Education Department released Guidelines for Elimination of Corporal Punishment (GECP)

Posted 29 Apr 2024

2 min read

GECP aims to safeguard the physical and mental well-being of students and extends to address any form of harassment of students in schools.

Corporal Punishment (CP) is any punishment in which physical force is used and intended to cause some degree of pain or discomfort, however light. e.g., hitting, kicking, etc. [UN Convention on Rights of the Child (UNCRC)]

Ethical issues with corporal punishment
- Physical and psychological harm: CP can cause physical injuries, anxiety, low self-esteem, and other mental health issues.
- Perpetuation of violence: This may reinforce the idea that violence is an acceptable means of resolving conflicts or asserting authority, contributing to the normalization and perpetuation of violence in society.
- Discrimination and disproportionate impact: In some cases, CP may be applied disproportionately or discriminatorily based on factors such as gender, race, or socioeconomic status.
- Ineffective as a disciplinary measure: It may teach children to fear and avoid punishment rather than promoting positive behavioral changes or moral development.
- Impact on education: This can result in higher school drop-outs, and poor learning outcomes by creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation in classrooms, etc.

Article 39 of the Constitution: Directs the State to protect childhood and youth against exploitation and moral and material abandonment.
Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act 2009: Section 17 of the Act Prohibits physical and mental harassment and makes it a punishable offense.
NCPCR guidelines for eliminating corporal punishment: Provides guidelines for positive engagement with children as well as effective remedial measures to address CP such as setting up Corporal Punishment Monitoring Cells in every school.

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