Landmark decision ensures financial support for the student victimised in Khabapur village of Muzaffarnagar District
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court has directed the state government to bear the educational expenses of a Muslim student who was slapped last year by classmates under the instructions of a teacher, Tripta Tyagi, for not reciting a multiplication table.
The court’s decision this week (July 26) aims to provide all possible assistance to the affected student and ensure his uninterrupted education.
The incident occurred at Neha Public School in Khabapur village in Muzaffarnagar, where a video showing the student being slapped went viral in August last year. Following the incident, the child’s father transferred his ward to Chardon School for a safer educational environment.
During the court hearing, Justices Abhay Soka and Augustine George emphasised the government’s responsibility to support the student. “The government should ensure that the child continues to study in the same school. The child’s education expenses should be borne till he completes his education,” stated the bench.
Senior counsel for the UP government, Garima Prasad, mentioned that an NGO had offered to cover the expenses. However, the bench found this arrangement unclear and insisted on a more reliable solution. “Someone comes forward and says that he will bear all the expenses of the child until his education is completed,” remarked the bench, scheduling the next hearing for September 2.
Basic Shiksha Adhikari (BSA) Sandeep Kumar Chauhan confirmed that the department is currently paying the student’s tuition fees at Chardon School and covering transportation costs. Additionally, the Syed Murtaza Memorial Trust has expressed willingness to assist the student, subject to certain conditions.
“The trust has asked to help the affected student based on certain terms and conditions,” said BSA Chauhan. The trust’s secretary, Salman Syed, wrote in a letter that they are prepared to sponsor the student’s educational expenses for this year, contingent on satisfactory academic progress. “If his academic performance is not as expected, we will reconsider the sponsorship,” Syed noted.
The student’s father, Irshad, expressed relief at the support but highlighted ongoing challenges. “The transportation expenses had been received before the summer vacation. His expenses for 20 days were 4,000 rupees. Now the expenses for July have to be paid,” Irshad explained.
The Supreme Court’s ruling marks a crucial step in addressing the incident’s aftermath and ensuring the student’s right to education is upheld. As the case progresses, the focus remains on providing the necessary support for the student’s academic journey and overall well-being.