A deeply disturbing incident has come to light in the Barmer district of Rajasthan, where a Gurukul (residential school) allegedly subjected children to brutal punishment.
The Gurukul, located in Harpaliya village (Sedwa region) and operated by the Harpaleshwar Mahadev Vikas Seva Samiti since 2022, was meant to provide shelter and education to children from poor, nomadic, and orphaned families.
However, the institution has now come under scrutiny after horrifying allegations of abuse.
On the night of 17th August 2025, two children, aged around 10–11 years, allegedly wet their beds.
The Gurukul’s warden-teacher, Narayan Giri, is accused of punishing them by branding their bodies with a hot iron rod.
Burn marks were found on the children’s bodies, and they also alleged that they were beaten and threatened to remain silent. One injured child eventually managed to escape and revealed the ordeal to his family.
A video of the incident went viral on social media, sparking massive outrage in the local community. Villagers gathered outside the Gurukul demanding strict action against the accused and calling for the immediate closure of the Gurukul.
According to DSP Jivanlal Khatri (Chohtan police station jurisdiction), the accused teacher Narayan Giri has been taken into custody, and a criminal investigation is underway.
Meanwhile, Block Education Officer (BEO) Prakash Chand Vishnoi confirmed that a departmental inquiry has also been launched. A special investigation committee visited the Gurukul, interacted with children, parents, and staff, and is expected to submit its report soon.
This shocking case has raised serious concerns about child safety in Gurukuls and residential schools, where discipline often crosses into abuse.
Experts argue that this is not just about punishing one warden but about questioning the systemic lack of oversight, accountability, and child protection mechanisms in such institutions.
If the charges are proven, this case may lead to larger reforms in the management of Gurukuls, ensuring that children receive education with dignity and safety rather than suffering in silence.
