We live in a country that has not yet fully come to terms with accepting the LGBTQIA+ concept. This makes it very difficult for those identifying with this community to come out because they know deep down that they are going to be shamed and not accepted into society. This not just adversely affects adults but children as well because they get bullied in school the most and there is no one they can go and talk to about the issues they are facing. But recently, the Madras High Court issued a directive wherein the bench has asked the State Government to organise a programme to invite one teacher from every school to be sensitised on the issues children belonging to the LQBTQIA+ community experience. This is most definitely a progressive and welcoming directive!
Madras High Court Issues A New Directive
According to a report by LiveLaw, the bench of Justice Anand Venkatesh was hearing a petition filed by a lesbian couple who was being harassed by their parents and the police. The issue was raised during a hearing on Friday, the court noticed that there is no system channel in the education system to address the concerns of the children belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community. Who better than a teacher to help the students with these issues, the court has suggested that Additional Advocate General S. Silambanan put forth a programme that can be organised over a period of 6-8 weeks to sensitise one teacher per school on the same.
The court also put forth a suggestion that the upcoming vacation period would be the best for this. It has also recommended that teachers who would be recommended for this programme have basic knowledge of child welfare. The teachers who are chosen for this programme can also be guided by medical professionals who have a deeper understanding of these issues. This will help give the teachers an idea of what the children belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community go through.
Also read: Tamil Nadu Makes Police Harassment Of LGBTQIA+ People Punishable. Other States Should Take Notes!
The court was also of the opinion that the teacher can be assigned the role of that a counsellor whom the concerned student can freely talk about their issues. It feels so good to read such news and to know that we are on a path towards inclusivity and supporting students belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community. I hope this directive this implemented without any resistance.
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