THIS refers to the report ‘Children call for end to corporal punishment’ (May 1), according to which, a large number of children addressed a press conference at the National Press Club in Islamabad in connection with the International Day to End Corporal Punishment. Media coverage of such an important topic will surely raise general awareness in society, particularly among teachers and parents.

Being an educationist, I have been demanding an end to corporal punishment for every child studying at any level in any part of the world. I have raised this issue through international publications as well. Children are innocent and unpredictable creatures. It is never okay or acceptable to slap them or hit them with canes if they behave differently from how we want them to behave.

Being a teacher, one must inspire the students through positive approach. Discussion is the best way to sort out problems, and patience is required to handle them wisely. Corporal punishment is a product of negativity. It is a dangerous weapon, even if it is used at home by elders to tame the young.

The trauma inflicted by corporal punishment may affect generations, and give birth to an aggressive society where everyone taunts others. The aggression people showcase in adulthood might be a result of their pent-up frustration caused by corporal punishment they faced in their childhood. We all must understand that corporal punishment is considered an illegal act globally. Our children are beautiful creatures who are born to spread happiness in this world, not to be tamed through punishment.

Munawar Hameed Mangalwala
Karachi

Published in Dawn, May 14th, 2022