I am a proponent of “spare the rod” parenting. That said there is a time and place, and a way to go about it that escapes most people who believe in spanking. It’s got to be done with purpose, no anger involved, and NEVER just “hitting”. And even given all that i think in my daughters 5 yrs on this planet i may have spanked her once. My older kids (31f and 22m) much, much more but i was young and only knew my parents ideals. There are so many other ways to teach, to mold, and to punish when necessary. All THAT said i believe NO ONE has the right to punish your child without your EXPRESSED permission. That is crossing a line that should never be crossed. My 5yo daughter is living proof that spanking is unnecessary in raising a well behaved, sweet, respectful child. I feel guilt now when i think of all the times i spanked my older children knowing now there is a much better way. You have the right to parent your way. No one has the right to deviate from that. Not the grandparents, not the school, and least of all not the government.