The Supreme Court on Monday sought response from the Central government and others on a petition seeking directions to make legal education and self-defense training mandatory in the school curriculum. The hearing in this case will take place after four weeks.
Notice to states and union territories
A bench of Justice BR Gavai and Justice KV Vishwanathan issued notice to the Centre, states and Union Territories seeking response on the petition within four weeks. Geeta Rani of Delhi has said in the petition that it is necessary for every citizen to understand the basic laws to protect the fundamental rights. The fundamental rights have been guaranteed by the Constitution.
‘The curriculum should include basic legal education’
It is important to include basic legal education in the academic curriculum and self-defence training at the school level to ensure that children can defend themselves in any adverse situation, the plea said.
Will help protect children from violence
NCRB reports 1.62 lakh cases of crimes against children were registered in 2022. Legal education and self-defense training will help prevent crime and protect children from violence.
As a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, India is bound to protect children from all forms of violence and abuse. The petition claimed that in many incidents the victims, mainly children, could not defend themselves due to lack of self-defense skills.
Children’s understanding of rights will increase
Legal literacy will increase understanding of rights, help children avoid illegal activities and seek help when needed. This step will empower students, especially girl students, by teaching them to protect themselves and boosting their self-confidence.