Karnataka: Tumkur school accused of punishing students over unpaid fees

Lourde Mata School on the outskirts of Tumkur city is facing allegations of mistreating students over unpaid school fees. Parents have raised concerns after several children were subjected to strange punishments, including being made to sit separately in the classroom and being denied the chance to sit for exams due to outstanding fees.

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One such incident involved a Class 4 student, Kushal, who was reportedly isolated from his classmates for not paying his fees. His parents claimed that Kushal was left to sit alone in the classroom and was also barred from taking a class test. Distressed by the situation, Kushal returned home in tears.

Parents have condemned the school’s actions, describing them as harsh and unfair, especially given that the students are young children. The school’s decision to segregate these students is being viewed as a form of emotional punishment, leaving lasting psychological effects. Despite complaints, parents claim the school administration has refused to address their concerns.

While the school is within its rights to request fees, the treatment of children based on their financial situation has raised ethical concerns. Critics argue that such actions not only humiliate the students but also foster a sense of inferiority, contradicting the nurturing environment schools are meant to provide.