UP school controversy: Children allegedly forced into manual labour, viral video triggers probe

Banda (Uttar Pradesh): The incident has been reported from Achharaund gram panchayat in Banda district of Uttar Pradesh, where students of a junior high school were allegedly seen engaged in manual labour during school hours.

A video showing children in uniform loading sand with shovels and metal pans has gone viral on social media, triggering widespread concern.

The footage has sparked strong reactions online, with viewers questioning how schoolchildren were made to perform physically demanding work. The activity shown in the video is widely regarded as inappropriate for minors and has raised questions about supervision and governance within the school system.

Local reports suggest that the task was allegedly assigned by school authorities, including teachers. The incident has led to allegations of misconduct within the school, with claims that students are being subjected to treatment that goes beyond educational activities.

Complaint by local resident

The video was recorded by Mahendra, a resident of Acharaundh village. He alleged that his children, Riyansh and Riyansi, study in the same school and are among those affected. He further claimed that students are being made to carry out manual labour and are also facing discriminatory behaviour within the institution.

Expressing concern over the situation, Mahendra said, “My children go to school to study, yet they are being made to perform manual labour there. I humbly appeal to the government and the administration to investigate this matter and take the strictest possible action against those responsible.”

The incident has triggered anger among local residents as well as social media users. Many have demanded strict action against those responsible, stating that forcing children into labour in or around school premises is both unethical and a violation of child protection laws.

Legal and child rights concerns

Experts note that involving children in manual labour is a punishable offence under Indian law. The incident has once again highlighted concerns about child rights violations and the need for stricter monitoring of educational institutions to ensure student safety.

District Basic Education Officer Avyakt Ram Tiwari said that schools were closed on Friday and that he had not yet seen the viral video. However, he added that if the footage is confirmed to be authentic, a formal inquiry will be conducted and appropriate action will follow based on the findings.

The incident has reignited debate over oversight in government schools, particularly in rural areas, where monitoring mechanisms are often questioned. Authorities are now expected to verify the allegations and ensure accountability if violations are confirmed.
(With IANS inputs)