Bengaluru: A wave of protest erupted at Government Model Higher Primary School in Andrahalli, Peenya, when two class 6 students were compelled to clean toilets on Thursday. Outraged parents and members of civil society rallied against this unacceptable act, prompting the suspension of the 53-year-old headmistress, Lakshmidevamma, by the Department of School Education and Literacy on Friday.
The education department disclosed that the headmistress instructed two boys from class 6 to undertake the unsuitable task of cleaning the school toilets. A video capturing the incident went viral, intensifying the public’s anger. Jaya Karnataka Maharashi Valmiki Trust and the parents promptly filed a complaint on Friday, sparking protests on the school premises.
Responding swiftly, the Block Education Officer of North-1 visited the school to investigate the matter. Following the inquiry, the headmistress was suspended based on confirmation of the allegations against her, as per a circular from the Deputy Director of Public Instruction, Bangalore North.
Parents who participated in the protests claimed that the children were directed to clean the toilets using acid, further heightening concerns about safety and appropriate treatment of students.
Madhu Bangarappa, the Minister, condemned the incident, ensuring strict actions against teachers violating norms. He expressed determination to prevent the recurrence of such incidents, promising thorough examination by government officials. Reflecting on the severity of the situation, he stated, “We cannot sit quietly knowing that this has happened despite being so strict.”
This incident echoes a similar occurrence at Moraji Desai Residential School in Yaluvahalli, Malur taluk, Kolar, where students were mandated to clean a soak pit. In that case, the principal and a teacher were arrested, and four others were suspended in response to public outcry.
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