Bullying and Its Consequences
The NBSE ssued a directive in 2013 asking all heads of institutions to adopt a robust anti-bullying and ragging committee and implement a zero-tolerance policy.
- In an attempt to curb the menace of bullying and ragging in
schools and hostels, the Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE) issued a
directive in 2013 asking all heads of institutions to adopt a robust
anti-bullying and ragging committee and implement a zero-tolerance policy. The
prevalence of bullying among school-going children is a grave concern, with
both short and long-term consequences for victims. Educational institutions
were instructed to employ school counsellors to support students socially, emotionally,
and academically, ensuring that no child becomes a victim of bullying or
ragging. While such preventive measures could create a conducive learning
environment, it remains unclear whether schools have heeded this directive.
-
- The recent viral video of a group of girls verbally and
physically assaulting a peer has brought the issue of bullying to the forefront
once again. In the incident, one of the bullies is seen in a school uniform,
allegedly from a school in Chümoukedima, which has sparked public concern and
outrage, prompting civil organisations to pressure school authorities to take
appropriate action against those involved. However, this may just be the tip of
the iceberg. A similar incident was reported in Kohima recently, suggesting that
many students, regardless of gender, may be suffering silently at the hands of
bullies, unwilling to inform their parents or report to school authorities. The
recent incident might have been overlooked if the video had not gone viral.
-
- Given the prevalence of bullying in the state, school
authorities should establish mechanisms to address such cases, including
conducting awareness programmes, providing counselling, and taking disciplinary
action against perpetrators. While schools must prioritise the well-being of
students, parental intervention is also vital. Parents should help prevent
bullying by educating their children about it, actively communicating with
them, reassuring them, and reporting incidents to teachers or school
authorities. These supportive actions will encourage children to confide in
their parents about bullying incidents.
It is crucial not to underestimate the importance of addressing this
issue, as it can profoundly affect children’s mental health, quality of life,
and academic performance. Bullying can lead to emotional and mental health
problems, including depression and anxiety. It is our collective responsibility
to provide a safe environment for all children to grow socially, emotionally,
and academically. We must also protect our children from cyberbullying, which
is a new form of bullying.
