Facing criticism from the opposition over the recent Krishnagiri school abuse case, Tamil Nadu School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi on Friday assured that the government is not only committed to securing stringent punishment for sexual offenders but is also working on invalidating their educational qualifications to prevent them from finding opportunities elsewhere.Speaking to reporters after attending an event at a school in Chrompet, the minister emphasized the government’s firm stance against such crimes. “Strict punishment will be ensured after a thorough investigation to verify the truth. Additionally, we are taking steps to invalidate the educational qualifications of such offenders to prevent them from securing employment in the future. These issues will be dealt with an iron fist,” he asserted.
Addressing the case of three government school teachers allegedly abusing a Class VIII student in Krishnagiri, Poyyamozhi pointed to the existing Maanavar Manasu Petti (Student’s Mind Box) initiative, a system implemented in all government schools to allow students to express grievances. However, he acknowledged that many students remain fearful of speaking out about abuse.
The minister also highlighted the availability of counseling services in government schools, noting that “at least 700 doctors are available on a rotational basis to provide psychological support to students.”
When asked about another recent case in which a Class IV student was reportedly abused by staff at a private school in Trichy, Poyyamozhi assured that the government would take all necessary legal measures to prevent such incidents from recurring.
“We will do everything within the legal framework to ensure justice and to make sure such crimes do not happen again,” he said.
With rising concerns over student safety in schools, the minister’s statements highlight the government’s efforts to reinforce protection mechanisms and impose severe consequences on perpetrators. However, the opposition continues to question the effectiveness of the measures in place, urging stronger action to safeguard children in educational institutions.