Srinagar, Aug 26: Jammu and Kashmir Education Minister Sakina Itoo has called for strict action against those responsible for the death of a minor schoolgirl in Kishtwar, saying the incident has created a sense of insecurity among parents and students and underlined the need for stronger child-protection measures in educational institutions.
Talking to reporters, Sakina Itoo described the incident as “shameful” and “unfortunate” and said there was an urgent need to ensure a safe environment for girl students.
“Such incidents create insecurity among parents. We need a safe environment for our girl students,” she said, adding that stringent action should be taken against those found responsible.
The remarks came after the death of a 14-year-old schoolgirl from the Chatroo area of Kishtwar, who died while being shifted for medical treatment related to her pregnancy.
The case has led to the arrest of a government school teacher, identified as Khalid Hussain Sheikh, who was posted as a Teacher Grade-II at Middle School Bumalpora, Zone Inderwal. Police have registered an FIR under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The Chief Education Officer, Kishtwar, has also placed the teacher under suspension pending an inquiry into the matter.
The case has sparked protests in parts of Kishtwar, with locals demanding strict action and accountability. Reports have also said the accused teacher’s brother was arrested in connection with the circumstances surrounding the attempted termination of the pregnancy.
The minister as per the news agency Kashmir News Trust said the incident has caused fear among parents and students and stressed that schools must provide an environment where children, particularly girl students, feel safe and protected.
She said the Education Department would focus on strengthening safeguards for children and ensuring that incidents of this nature are dealt with firmly.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the girl’s pregnancy, medical complications and death is underway. [KNT]
