Hyderabad, Feb 4 (TNT): The Telangana Human Rights Commission (TGHRC) on Wednesday taken suo motu cognizance of alleged violations of child protection laws after a media report claimed that students in government and aided schools in Hyderabad were being compelled to perform sweeping and garbage disposal duties due to the absence of sweepers.
The cognizance was taken by Ms Sivadi Praveena, Member (Judicial), TGHRC, on a report titled “విద్యార్థులే.. స్వీపర్లు!” published in Telugu daily.
Observing that the allegations disclose prima facie violations of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, and the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, the Commission noted that forcing students of Classes I to X to undertake menial cleaning work, coupled with alleged threats and physical punishment, raises serious concerns of illegal child labour, corporal punishment, and institutional abuse.
Terming the issue as one affecting the dignity, safety, and fundamental rights of children, the Commission directed the Principal Secretary, School Education Department, Government of Telangana, and the District Educational Officer, Hyderabad, to file comprehensive factual and action-taken reports.
The Commission has sought details regarding the availability and deployment of sweepers, measures taken to prevent recurrence, disciplinary proceedings against erring officials, and steps to ensure strict adherence to child welfare statutes and constitutional safeguards.
The matter has been posted for further consideration on February 24, 2026, upon receipt of the reports.
TNT TS
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