The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has initiated suo motu cognisance following a media report detailing the dangerous conditions under which school children in Madhya Pradesh’s Vidisha district reportedly cross the Betwa River. The Commission has formally requested a report from the Chief Secretary of Madhya Pradesh within a two-week timeframe.

Unsafe Crossing for Students

According to information, students hailing from Kakraua village allegedly navigate perilous check dam pillars to travel to school. This risky route reduces their journey from approximately 13 kilometres by road to merely 1.5 kilometres. Reports indicate that, daily, nine students—including five girls—attempt this unsafe crossing.

The NHRC has expressed serious concerns about potential human rights violations based on the contents of the media report. The Commission cited Article 21A of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees children between the ages of 6 and 14 the right to free and compulsory education. Further, the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, reinforces this right, making it clear that access to education is essential for all children in this age group.

The NHRC emphasised that the absence of a secure mode of transport for students constitutes a significant infringement on their fundamental rights. This argument underlines the necessity for the state to provide a safe means for children to attend school with dignity.

Villagers’ Challenges and Concerns

The media report, published on August 4, highlights the difficulties faced by villagers who are reportedly unable to transport their children to a more distant school due to agricultural duties. As a result, families feel they are left with the choice to either cease sending their children to school or continue the hazardous practice of crossing the river.

One reported incident involved a student who was unable to cross the pillars due to her height, which affected her ability to attend school, ultimately resulting in her failing her final exams. This situation underscores the urgent need for intervention to safeguard children’s educational opportunities.

The District Education Officer has undertaken a visit to the location and has communicated the issue to the District Collector. However, no specific timeline for constructing a safe passage across the Betwa River has yet been disclosed, leaving the community with continuing uncertainty regarding the future safety of their children in accessing education.

Next Steps from NHRC

The NHRC’s notice to the Madhya Pradesh Chief Secretary calls for an investigation into the reported situation and requires a comprehensive response within the specified period. Through this action, the Commission aims to ensure that proper measures are taken to address the safety and educational rights of these children.

The potential risks faced by students in crossing the Betwa River have prompted broader discussions about the responsibility of the state to provide safe educational access. The NHRC’s involvement highlights the critical need for governmental accountability in safeguarding human rights, particularly those of vulnerable populations such as children.

As the response from the state government is awaited, the community remains hopeful for a prompt resolution to ensure that children can travel safely to and from school, thereby fulfilling their right to education without jeopardising their lives.

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