Bengaluru: Students Allegedly Locked Inside Dark Room In School Over Unpaid Fees; Parents Demand Action

Bengaluru: A school in Bengaluru, identified as Orchid International School, Mysore Road, Karnataka, has been accused of locking students as punishment for non-payment of fees. This alleged practice has reportedly caused significant emotional and mental distress among the affected children.

Parents have expressed outrage over the treatment, condemning it as harmful and asserting that such actions could negatively impact their children’s academic performance.

Over the past two weeks, six incidents have been reported where students were allegedly confined to dark rooms or libraries as punishment for unpaid fees, tardiness, or misbehaviour. According to reports, the students were locked in a dark library during school hours, further compounding their distress.

Also Read: ‘Greatly Harmed Babasaheb’s Dignity’: Mayawati Asks Amit Shah To Withdraw Remark On BR Ambedkar Amid Row

As per a News18 report, the school has allegedly warned students of severe consequences if they file formal complaints. Additionally, this incident appears not to be isolated, as similar allegations have surfaced against other private schools in Bengaluru.

In response to these allegations, formal complaints have been filed with the Education Department and the Child Safety & Protection Department. Parents have demanded urgent action, including revoking the licenses of such schools and blacklisting them. They argue that these punitive measures violate children’s rights and have called for strict accountability from the authorities.

Education Department's Statement

Following the complaints, the Education Department has warned private schools against harassing students over unpaid fees. They emphasised the potential harm such actions can cause to students' mental health and academic performance.

The department has urged parents to report such incidents to the police and assured them of thorough investigations. Officials have also stated that schools found guilty of such practices will face severe consequences, including having their permits revoked and being blacklisted.

Also Read: Free Train Ride In India? THIS Place Will Offer You Ticket-Less Journey Amid Scenic Hills

According to a report by Asianet News, six students were allegedly confined to a dark room for an entire day over the past two weeks, with no access to light or other basic facilities.

However, when approached by News18 for a comment, Orchid International School denied the allegations, describing them as baseless.