Shocking Punishment: In a distressing incident in Chhattisgarh, around 45 students of a missionary boarding school in Surajpur district reportedly went without food for two days as a form of punishment by the superintendent. This punishment was imposed on them for allegedly damaging a football during a game.
When local residents came to know about the hungry children, they stepped in and provided them with biscuits. As news spread, parents and other locals confronted the school and hostel management about the situation.
The superintendent, Father Peter Sadom, admitted that he had not provided the children with two meals but justified his actions by stating that the children needed to “learn to struggle.” Consequently, he has been suspended from his position.
The school, which is located in Pratappur, is under the management of Bishop’s House, Ambikapur. It accommodates 141 boys and girls, primarily from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, in a hostel with only 21 seats. Sources have mentioned that the living conditions are cramped, with children being housed so closely together that there is barely any room to walk.
The disturbing incident came to light when a video of local residents distributing biscuits to the hungry children circulated on social media. In response, the authorities initiated an inquiry.
It was revealed that the incident occurred when the children were playing football on August 28, and the ball burst. Father Sadom reacted angrily, warning the children that they would “regret their mistake” and that they should face the consequences. District officials conducting the probe were informed that 45 students were being subjected to punishment for damaging the football.
Father Sadom defended his actions by explaining, “We provide everything for the kids, yet they break utensils and balls. They should learn to face the consequences for their wrongdoing. We did not provide them with two meals. The accusation of keeping them hungry for two days is incorrect.”
Shocking Punishment: Action Demanded
Parents and villagers expressed their anger and demanded action, raising concerns about the safety of the children under Father Sadom’s supervision. The district education officer submitted the inquiry report to the collector, confirming the allegations.
Based on the report, Bishop House suspended Father Sadom from all responsibilities related to the hostel and reassigned him to the head office in Ambikapur. The child welfare committee will also conduct an inspection of the school and hostel. Officials were reportedly shocked to discover bottles of pesticides in the rooms where the children reside.
