"The Initiative Government Resource Center in Amritsar Block-2 is in danger due to the actions of some officials. the attempt to close the center will not succeed, says Prashant Chauhan."

Mr. Prashant Chauhan, President, Lok Kranti Council Punjab, Vice President, Bharat Scouts & Guides and certified RTI activist while informing about a serious issue related to the welfare and education of children with special needs at the Pahal Government Resource Center in Amritsar Block-2, Punjab said that This center, which has been a beacon of hope and support for children with disabilities, is now facing threats due to the actions of certain officials within the Education Department. The Pehal Government Resource Center in Amritsar Block-2 was the first of its kind in Punjab, setting an example for similar centers across the state. It has been recognized for its outstanding services and significant contributions to the education and development of children with special needs, including those with mental, auditory, speech, and mobility disabilities. The dedicated staff at this center have been tirelessly working to assist these children, ensuring they receive the best possible education and care. However, it has come to our attention that some officials within the Punjab Education Department Headquarters are attempting to undermine the efforts of this center. These officials are spreading misinformation and presenting false facts to discredit the center's achievements. Such actions are not only disheartening but also harmful to the children who rely on this center for their education and development. Recently, a letter (No. I.E.D./SSA/2024/89069/178015 dated 22-07-2024) was issued by the office of the Director General of School Education-cum-State Project Director, Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (Punjab), directing the District Education Officer (Elementary), Amritsar, to transfer special needs children closer to their homes, citing alleged violations of the RTE Act 2009 (copy enclosed). However, upon reviewing Chapter 2, Section 3 of the RTE Act 2009, it is clear that parents and children have the right to choose the school they wish to attend without any geographical restrictions. Actions and decisions being made without a thorough understanding of the RTE Act 2009 are jeopardizing the future of students at this center, and concerned parents have already lodged complaints with the Punjab Government. Additionally, the hostel at the Pehal Government Resource Center, Amritsar Block-2, has been closed for a long time, and no grants have been released for the center. The contracts of employees kept under stop-gap arrangements have also not been renewed for a considerable time. Due to unpaid salaries, the cooks, teachers, vocational teachers, and staff responsible for cleaning toilets, essential for the special needs of these children, have stopped working. Despite the strict stance of the Central Government and Indian laws regarding the rights of special needs children, the Punjab State Government appears to be neglecting these vulnerable children, playing with their futures without any concern. It is troubling to see that some officials at the Punjab Education Department Headquarters, who seem to lack empathy, are engaging in unethical practices that harm the future of these innocent children. In view of the above, Chauhan said that we have written a letter to the Education Minister of the Central Government requesting him to conduct a thorough investigation into the actions of the concerned officials and to immediately stop any attempt being made to close down the Pahal Government Resource Center. It is important to ensure that the rights of children with special needs are protected and that they continue to receive the support and education they deserve. We trust that Hon'ble Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan will take immediate action on this matter to protect the rights and future of these vulnerable children.

PEHAL GOVERNMENT RESOURCE CENTRE AMRITSAR BLOCK - 2 PUNJAB GOVERNMENT'S EDUCATION DEPARTMENT