Bombay Scottish in 'Orkut' Web

According to reports, nearly 60 students of Mahim-based Bombay Scottish High School have used the social networking Web site, Orkut, to air their grievances against the school's Principal, DPN Prasad, and the Vice Principal.

These students have contributed without reservation to a recently set up forum on Orkut, called 'All those who hate DPN', alleging that the Principal along with his Deputy have ruined the image of the school.
It is learnt that Prasad, instead of punishing the students, has decided to call in cyber cell cops to talk to these students about keeping a safe distance from sites like Orkut.

Addressing the 250 odd parents of these students from classes VII and VIII, who posted the messages, Prasad denied all allegations against him. He also addressed the students separately.

The parents' response is something of a mixed bag. While a few pointed out Prasad wanted the children to take their studies seriously for the next two years, one parent alleged that Prasad has threatened to initiate action against the students, accusing them of committing a cyber crime.

Prasad, in a statement, said he wants the Mumbai Police Cyber Cell to educate students about cyber crime and its implications, and will invite Cell officials to address students in June.

The Principal advised the students to keep away from mud-slinging. Apparently, he's told his own children to stay away from Web sites like Orkut, advising them not to defame any person/institution, as that could land them in trouble.

And, in the latest development, principals from other schools in Mumbai have also decided to rope in Cyber Crime officials to speak at their schools. They believe the Cyber Cell can play a huge role in educating students and parents, and warning them against the legal and moral consequences of cyber crime.

Meanwhile, Principal of Andheri-based Holy Family School, Father Francis Swamy, said that apart from educating students, parents and teachers also need to be involved in order for any initiative against Internet abuse to succeed.

Swamy strongly pointed out that without the support of parents, no awareness program can succeed. Parents need to be sensitized towards the problem, and have to be active in stopping their children from maligning anyone and everyone.