Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 11 Jun: The parents of a girl student studying at Doon Defence Dreamers, Rahul Bhagore and Mrs Gagaur, residents of Agra, today met Dr Geeta Khanna, Chairperson of the Uttarakhand State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, and submitted a detailed complaint regarding a highly serious incident involving their daughter.
The parents informed the Commission that their daughter sustained severe injuries after falling from the third floor of a hostel associated with Doon Defence Dreamers. According to them, neither the institution nor the hostel management informed them about the incident immediately. They came to know about the incident through a phone call made by another student. As per the complaint, the girl was initially taken to Doon Hospital in a critical condition and was later referred to Max Hospital, where she is presently undergoing treatment and remains in a serious condition.
The parents further alleged that the hostel’s security arrangements at the time of the incident were grossly inadequate. They stated that no security guard or watchman was present outside the hostel premises during the night. They also claimed that the girl was taken to the hospital primarily with the assistance of local residents and a cook, rather than by the institution’s management. Furthermore, they alleged that the incident was not promptly reported to the parents, police authorities, or other concerned officials.
The family also informed the Commission that they have serious doubts regarding the impartiality of the ongoing investigation. According to them, all relevant facts have not been adequately examined so far, and an independent and fair inquiry is necessary to bring the truth to light. The family requested the Uttarakhand State Commission for Protection of Child Rights to ensure a fair, transparent, and impartial investigation into the matter and to take appropriate action against any persons found responsible.
In this regard, Dr Geeta Khanna, Chairperson of the Commission, stated that this is an extremely sensitive matter in which the life of a young girl is at risk. The safety and well-being of children must remain the highest priority in any residential hostel or educational institution. If any negligence, violation of safety standards, or breach of child protection norms is found, the Commission will recommend appropriate action.
Dr Khanna further stated that the Commission has previously received various complaints concerning the said coaching institute. In addition, the Commission regularly receives complaints regarding coaching institutions and their associated hostels relating to child safety, monitoring mechanisms, mental health concerns, residential facilities, and the protection of children’s rights. These issues are of serious concern, and strict compliance with child protection standards must be ensured in all such institutions.
Dehradun is widely recognised across the country as a prominent educational hub. However, with the rapid growth of coaching institutions and student hostels, greater vigilance is required to ensure the safety and welfare of children. The Commission is viewing this matter not merely as an isolated incident but also from the broader perspective of child safety and protection.
Taking cognisance of the matter, the Commission has decided to seek a detailed report and relevant records from the concerned authorities. Necessary steps will be taken to ensure a fair and impartial inquiry into the incident.
