Physical Punishment of Student in Iranshahr; Education Department Calls Student 'Problematic'

The Public Relations Manager of the Education Department of Sistan and Baluchestan has reported the confirmation of an error by a school vice-principal in Iranshahr due to the physical punishment of a student, stating that this individual has been referred to the Administrative Violations Committee for further investigation. Following the news of the physical punishment of a student at the 'Farough Azam' school in Iranshahr circulating on social media, Davood Gholi, the Public Relations Manager of the provincial education department, said: 'Unfortunately, this physical punishment of the student has occurred. This action is against regulations, and the case of the offending individual has been sent to the Administrative Violations Committee.' Statistical reports from civil organizations indicate that the number of students who are subjected to bullying and abuse is widespread, but the reaction of educational authorities is only expressed in cases that gain media attention. The Public Relations Manager of the Education Department, while blaming the Iranshahr student, stated that 'this student had previously caused several problems for other students. The school had repeatedly warned the student and his family. Nevertheless, the vice-principal called him to the office and unfortunately proceeded to punish him.' Gholi continued: 'The offending vice-principal has been referred to the relevant authorities for accountability. Investigations are still ongoing, and the final details of the incident will be announced.' He emphasized the prohibition of physical punishment in schools, stating: 'Any form of physical punishment is against regulations, and violators will be dealt with. Disciplinary laws have been repeatedly communicated to schools and education departments through guidelines.' This local official claimed: 'The Education Department has a special sensitivity to adherence to these laws and will decisively confront any violations.' Physical punishment and humiliation of students in the Islamic Republic's education system is not a new issue. Although the Ministry of Education has repeatedly stated, 'Our red line is the physical punishment of students,' and despite Article 81 of the new school executive regulations approved in 1400, which prohibits physical punishment of students and mistreatment under any circumstances, reports of student punishment by principals and teachers in Iran have been repeatedly documented.