The Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MCPCR) has directed the Zonal Education Officer, Wangoi Zone, Imphal West, to conduct an immediate, independent and time-bound inquiry following a complaint from the parents and guardians of two minor students of Class II/B of Catholic School Canchipur.
The complaint alleges that the two students were wrongfully confined inside a classroom that was locked from the outside after school hours on February 6, 2026.
In an official order, MCPCR Chairperson Keisam Pradipkumar directed the ZEO to submit an Action Taken Report, supported by documentary evidence, within ten days from receipt of the order. The Commission stated that the direction was issued in exercise of powers conferred under Sections 13 and 14 of the Commissions for Protection of Child Rights Act, 2005.
The inquiry has been tasked to ascertain the exact enrolment and attendance of Class II/B on February 6, examine the professional qualifications and certified child protection training status of the teachers concerned, and determine whether the alleged acts amount to corporal punishment, mental harassment, or unlawful confinement in violation of applicable laws. It will also examine whether classroom overcrowding or administrative lapses contributed to the incident, and review the school’s Child Protection Policy, student grievance redressal mechanism, Parents/Guardians’ Association framework, and internal grievance system for staff.
The Commission directed that the inquiry fix both individual and institutional responsibility and recommend appropriate disciplinary, corrective and systemic measures to prevent recurrence.
According to the order, the allegations, if substantiated, would prima facie constitute violations of the statutory prohibition against corporal punishment and mental harassment under Section 17 of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, and raise concerns of unlawful confinement causing psychological trauma.
It was reported that one Assistant Teacher, has been placed under suspension for three months. However, the complaint alleged involvement of more than one teacher, necessitating determination of full accountability.