Justice Verma Committee favours introduction of sex education in schools

NEW DELHI: The Justice Verma Committee wants introduction of sex education in a clinical manner in schools through trained teachers and child counsellors, saying there is no basis to say sex education leads to early sexual initiation by children.

Asking for a drastic revamp of the formal curriculum in Indian schools to make sex education an integral part of each Indian student's curriculum, the committee says children should be able to access informed, non-prejudiced sources in sexuality rather than misinformation through internet or misleading advertising.

"Correct knowledge must be disseminated in respect of sexuality and sexual choices, without enforcing gender stereotypes," the report said. Primary concerns in India regarding sex education is that it may lead to children indulging in sexual intercourse at an early age, will deprive children of innocence and the belief that it is the role of parents and the extended family, and not the formal education system, to give sex education. "Research does not indicate early sexual initiation on account of sex education...on the contrary, there is better and more responsible sexual behaviour as the information is made available in a scientifically accurate, non-judgmental, age appropriate and carefully phased process," the report said.

The Verma committee has also noted that such steps are necessary as stereotyping of women in India starts very early with a girl child being brought up to believe that she is the repository of 'honour' of her family and community or caste.