Revealing victim identity: TNCRW writes to Stalin seeking action

CHENNAI: Members of Tamil Nadu Child Rights Watch (TNCRW) submitted a suggestive letter to Chief Minister MK Stalin on Saturday seeking changes at administrative level of the Kallakurichi school, where a school girl’s death ignited violence recently.

The letter stated that strict action should be taken against individuals, media organisations and social media platforms for disclosing the identity of the victim. Further, for the Kallakurichi case, an investigation team should be formed consisting of concerned District Child Protection Officer (DCPO), chairman of Child Welfare Committee (CWC), Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) - Prevention of Crimes Against Women and Children Unit and Child rights activists, added the letter.

Further, TNCRW suggested the State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR) to conduct an independent investigation of all violations pertaining to child rights in educational institutions and submit its report to the government. Subsequently, the State government should formulate a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) with above stated points, urged TNCRW.

TNCRW suggested group or individual counseling for Kallakurichi school students who may have witnessed the incident either in person or through media. Further, children if willing should be allowed to shift schools. Additionally, toll free helpline number 14417 created by TN School Education Department for students should be put to effective use, detailed TNCRW’s letter.