Punjab & Haryana HC directs schools to safeguard LGBTQIA+ students' rights

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued a set of directions aimed at ensuring the safety and dignity of LGBTQIA+ students in schools across the two states. The court observed that many students face harassment, bullying and exclusion because of their gender identity or sexual orientation, which hampers their right to education. It instructed school authorities to adopt anti‑bullying policies, provide sensitisation programmes for teachers and staff, and create an environment where every child can learn without fear. The judgment also called for the inclusion of gender‑sensitive curricula and the establishment of grievance redressal mechanisms to address any incidents promptly. Implementation of these measures will be monitored by the court, which has asked the state education departments to submit compliance reports within a stipulated timeframe.