Jadavpur University’s Tussle with Child Rights Commission: A Battle of Jurisdiction?

In a recent turn of events, Jadavpur University (JU) has raised questions regarding the “jurisdiction” of the West Bengal Commission for Protection of Child Rights (WBCPCR). The university has urged the commission to refrain from proceeding with the show-cause notices that were issued in relation to the tragic death of a first-year student at JU.

The commission, in its defense, stated that the student in question was a minor, thus placing the matter squarely within its rights to intervene.

• In response to a show-cause notice from the WBCPCR, JU dispatched a letter on Monday.
• Sources have indicated that the panel is likely to send a counter-response to JU by Wednesday.

JU has received two notices from the commission. The initial notice accused the university of disregarding a Supreme Court order and UGC guidelines on ragging. The commission expressed dissatisfaction with JU’s initial response, prompting them to question the university’s authorities on why legal proceedings shouldn’t be initiated against them.

JU’s registrar, Snehamanju Basu, commented on the matter, stating,

• “We have clarified our position to the commission. We are hopeful that they will cease sending us further show-cause notices.”

In their letter to the commission, JU mentioned, “We request that your show-cause notices dated 14th and 18th August 2023 be reconsidered… especially in light of the unique facts, circumstances, and the ongoing police investigation.” The university also highlighted that their hostel campus isn’t primarily dedicated to “children.”

Ananya Chatterjee Chakraborti, an adviser to the commission, responded firmly to JU’s stance. She told

• The Telegraph, “JU cannot dictate our course of action.
• We will persist and seek our answers. Our actions are governed by the Commission for Protection of Child Rights Act, Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, and the Juvenile Justice Act.
• We can intervene wherever the child’s best interest is at stake.”
• Chatterjee Chakraborti further clarified that anyone under the age of 18 is legally considered a child, noting that the deceased student was only 17.

What are your thoughts on this ongoing dispute between Jadavpur University and the West Bengal Commission for Protection of Child Rights? Do you believe educational institutions should be held accountable by child rights commissions?

Share your opinions in the comments below.