<div>Court stresses lifelong trauma when trusted teachers betray vulnerable children in special schoolIn a heartbreaking case from Mumbai, a court has sentenced a former school principal and a teacher to five years in prison each for sexually abusing young girls with hearing and speech difficulties. The judge described schools as sacred places where children look up to teachers as role models and sources of guidance. "When that trust is broken by someone they see as almost god-like, the harm can last a lifetime," the court noted. The incidents happened between 2013 and 2014 at a special school for children who are deaf or have speech challenges. The principal, aged 62, would call girls to his office, hug them tightly, and kiss them. The 61-year-old teacher showed inappropriate pictures and touched girls wrongly during classes. The abuse went on for years because the girls were scared and vulnerable due to their disabilities. Many families hesitated to come forward, worried about disrupting their children's education or facing pressure from the school authorities. Eventually, several girls shared their stories, leading to a meeting with parents and activists. This finally resulted in a police complaint. During the trial, one main complainant and her mother changed their statements, claiming they were pressured by an activist. However, the court trusted the clear and consistent accounts from other young victims and a witness. Their testimonies were given with help from sign language experts, making sure everything was understood properly. The court also pointed out how the accused tried to influence parents to say nothing happened, which explained the initial silence from families. Parents often downplay such complaints to avoid trouble, especially when the teachers seem respected. Along with the prison time, each man was fined ₹25,000. The court asked authorities to provide extra help and compensation to the victims, recognizing that money alone can't heal the deep pain caused. This ruling highlights the importance of protecting vulnerable children and holding those in power accountable when they abuse trust.</div>

Principal &Teacher Jailed for Abusing Disabled Kid

Court highlights lifelong trauma from betrayal of trust in special school for children

Principal &Teacher Jailed for Abusing Disabled Kid

Court highlights lifelong trauma from betrayal of trust in special school for children

December 20, 2025 | 14:27 IST