Complaint boxes to return to govt schools

Chennai: School management committees (SMCs) are planning to revive the ‘Manavar Manasu' complaint boxes in govt schools amid rising sexual harassment cases. While these boxes were initially meant to address issues such as inadequate toilet facilities, lack of sports equipment and insufficient library books, teachers and SMC members now see them as a tool to address serious safety concerns, including sexual harassment.
However, awareness about the initiative remains low. "We didn't know these boxes existed. And even if we did, if someone in school is making us uncomfortable, how can we complain to the school? We mostly share concerns with our friends," said a Class X student.
Introduced in 2022 by the school education department, these boxes allow students to voice concerns anonymously. They are to be opened in the presence of SMC members and parents to ensure transparency. Although the state govt sanctioned 1,000 per school for the initiative, many schools have yet to install them, teachers said.
According to teachers, students hesitate to report serious issues due to fear of retaliation. "Students worry about being singled out if they raise complaints. This makes it difficult to create a safe environment," said Gomathi S, a primary school teacher from Medavakkam.
SMCs plan to conduct awareness sessions to educate students about the complaint boxes. "We will visit schools to sensitize students about the different ways they can protect themselves. It's crucial they understand how to use these boxes safely and confidently," said Sangita Ashok, an SMC member from Chengalpet.
The school education department is drafting a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to guide schools on handling complaints, particularly sensitive issues such as sexual harassment. It will outline steps for investigating complaints, ensuring confidentiality and involving child welfare committees where necessary. "Our key focus is to create awareness. With more awareness, we want to ensure students feel confident to raise concerns," said director of elementary education P Naresh.
Women teachers also highlighted the absence of a platform to report their concerns. They suggested setting up a similar anonymous mechanism for staff.