Opposition Member of Parliament Hem Chand has condemned the alleged beating of students up to 85 times at Queen Victoria School (QVS), warning that the incident raises serious concerns about grievous bodily harm and possible torture.
Mr Chand said schools must be safe environments where students and teachers can learn and work without fear, intimidation or violence.
“Beating a student 85 times is a grave matter that raises serious concerns about grievous bodily harm and possible torture,” he said.
His comments follow reports that 37 Year 11 students at QVS were allegedly assaulted with sticks by senior students from Verata House.
The Ministry of Education has confirmed that 21 Year 13 students involved in the incident have been removed from the school and placed under alternative schooling arrangements.
Education Minister Aseri Radrodro also expressed concern over delays by school officials in reporting the incident, describing such delays as unacceptable.
Mr Chand said the incident highlighted the importance of protecting children’s fundamental rights and promoting positive discipline.
“Our schools must be safe, respectful, and supportive environments where students can learn and teachers can teach without fear, intimidation, or violence,” he said.
He stressed that students and teachers deserved a friendly and respectful teaching and learning environment.
“We must promote positive discipline, accountability, and the protection of every child’s fundamental rights.”
Meanwhile, the Education Ministry has confirmed that the 37 affected Year 11 students have received counselling and psychosocial support.
The Ministry has also conducted awareness sessions involving police, school management, teachers and other stakeholders to address bullying and child protection.
Mr Chand called for an end to violence in schools.
“Let our schools be places of learning, not places of fear,” he said.
