Sexual abuse of girls by Christian principal at convent school in Rampur

Parents beat the principal, Joseph, at the school
Police arrested Joseph under the POCSO Act

Accused Christian Principal Joseph (in circle)

Rampur (Uttar Pradesh) — A violent public reaction erupted after allegations surfaced that the principal of St. Francis School, identified as Joseph, sexually molested female students. An angry crowd severely beat Joseph on the school premises. It is alleged that he used the pretext of disciplining students to touch them inappropriately. When the girls resisted, he allegedly resorted to threats and physical intimidation. The harassment reportedly drove several students to stop attending school. Upon learning of the allegations, families rushed to the school and assaulted Joseph. The incident occurred in Khuntakheda village. Police intervened, rescued Joseph from the mob, took him into custody, and later arrested him under the POCSO Act.

1. Families say Principal Arisheril Joseph would call girls into a room under the guise of punishment and sexually molest them. After students complained, parents had visited the school last week to register their concerns; Joseph reportedly apologized at that time.

2. Despite the apology, the misconduct persisted. Many girls, fearful for their safety, stopped attending classes. On 14^th February, Joseph was accused of inappropriately touching several students; the victims then went home and disclosed the incidents to their families.

3. On 16^th February, a large group of parents arrived at the school. According to reports, Joseph behaved arrogantly toward them, which enraged the parents and led to the assault on him.

4. Arisheril Joseph is originally from Kerala and was appointed to the school in 2020; he has been residing on campus since then. Parents also allege that Joseph worked under the influence of alcohol and would sometimes wander through classes while intoxicated.

Editorial Perspective

There must be a clear regulatory framework for all convent schools in the country. Regular inspections are needed, and where necessary, appoint Hindu administrators to ensure proper oversight of these institutions.