Introduction:

In a case concerning the appalling Muzaffarnagar student slapping incident, the Supreme Court expressed dissatisfaction with the State of Uttar Pradesh for not promptly implementing suggestions provided by Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) in its report regarding the counseling of students involved. The incident involved a teacher instructing students to assault a 7-year-old Muslim boy, leading to calls for an independent probe. This summary explores the arguments presented, the court’s directions, and the ongoing challenges in ensuring compliance with recommendations.

Arguments of Both Sides:

Social activist Tushar Gandhi moved the Supreme Court, seeking an independent investigation and FIR registration against those responsible for the student slapping incident. The Court, on previous occasions, emphasized the need for counseling not only for the victim but also for other students who participated or witnessed the incident. Despite the Court’s orders, the State of UP faced criticism for delays in FIR registration and non-compliance with counseling directives. The recent hearing revealed discrepancies in the State’s claims of ongoing counseling, leading to the court’s displeasure.

Court’s Judgement:

The Supreme Court, headed by Justices Abhay S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan, directed the immediate implementation of TISS’s counseling suggestions for other students involved in the incident. Expressing dissatisfaction with the State’s delay and highlighting the urgency of counseling, the Court granted a month’s time for the State to file a compliance affidavit by February 28, 2024. The matter is scheduled for consideration on March 1. The court’s consistent stance underscores the importance of swift and comprehensive action in addressing the aftermath of the disturbing incident.