JIND: After the TOI highlighted the issue on Sunday, the Haryana government has taken action by ordering the transfer of 15 staff members, including a peon and lab attendant, involved in the sexual harassment case affecting 142 girls in Jind district.
The order, issued on December 11, transfers seven male and eight female staff members to different schools within Jind district. Additionally, a physics lecturer has been transferred to Bhiwani district with immediate effect.
The decision comes after media coverage of the matter prompted action, despite an earlier statement by Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on November 28, acknowledging the appointment of 16 new staff members to replace the existing ones. The delay in taking action raised concerns, leading to the subsequent transfer order for 15 staff members and the appointment of a higher number of female teachers in the Jind school.
Local residents and activists have been vocal about the issue, emphasizing the need for systemic changes to prevent the recurrence of such incidents. Sonia Doohan, a social activist and NCP leader, called for comprehensive efforts by the Haryana government to avoid similar horror incidents in the future.
Vijay Laxmi, District Education Officer (DEO), confirmed the receipt of the transfer order from higher officials and its transmission to Block Education Officers (BEO) for necessary action. She also mentioned the establishment of complaint and suggestion boxes in schools, urging BEOs to monitor these boxes regularly to encourage girls to voice their concerns.
(The victims' identity has not been revealed to protect their privacy as per Supreme Court directives on cases related to sexual assault)
