SCHOOL VICTIMIZATION AND INSTITUTIONAL RESPONSIBILITY: A COMPREHENSIVE LEGAL AND POLICY ANALYSIS

AUTHOR – JEYASHREE A R, STUDENT AT TAMILNADU DR AMBEDKAR LAW UNIVERSITY, CHENNAI

BEST CITATION – JEYASHREE A R, SCHOOL VICTIMIZATION AND INSTITUTIONAL RESPONSIBILITY: A COMPREHENSIVE LEGAL AND POLICY ANALYSIS, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 6 (4) OF 2026, PG. 889-902, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344

Abstract

School victimization, encompassing peer bullying, teacher-to-student abuse, harassment, and cyberbullying, has emerged as a significant global concern with serious psychological, academic, and social consequences. This research paper critically examines the legal and institutional responsibilities of schools in preventing and addressing such victimization. Using a doctrinal and policy-oriented approach, the study analyzes empirical literature, statutory frameworks, human rights obligations, and judicial precedents across jurisdictions, with particular emphasis on the Indian legal framework. The paper evaluates key doctrines such as duty of care, negligence, deliberate indifference, and vicarious liability to determine the extent of institutional accountability. It further highlights systemic gaps, including definitional ambiguities, underreporting, and challenges in addressing cyberbullying and psychological harm. The study proposes comprehensive reforms, including clearer legal definitions, mandatory enforcement mechanisms, improved grievance redressal systems, staff training, and independent oversight. The paper concludes that school victimization must be recognized not merely as a disciplinary issue but as a violation of fundamental rights requiring robust legal accountability and institutional reform.

Keywords: School victimization, bullying, institutional liability, duty of care, Indian law, cyberbullying, child protection