Ahmedabad School Officials Face Removal Over Student Assault Negligence
In a serious development in Ahmedabad, the city district education officer (DEO) is preparing to issue formal notices seeking explanations for why the principal and administrative head of the Seventh-Day Adventist school in the Khokhra area should not be removed from service. This action follows a preliminary inquiry that found both officials guilty of negligence in handling an assault on a Class 7 student.
Details of the Assault Incident
According to available information, the incident involved three Class 7 students who attacked their class monitor on the school premises. The accused students allegedly used a blade to slash the buttons of the victim's shirt and threatened to kill him. After the assault, the victim's father lodged a complaint at the Khokhra police station, leading to the registration of an offence against the minors.
Investigation and Findings
Following the incident, the Ahmedabad City DEO, Rohit Chaudhary, ordered a formal investigation and assigned the responsibility to an education inspector. The inspector conducted a preliminary probe and submitted a report to City DEO Rohit Chaudhary. The report found school principal Robinson and administrative head Mayurika responsible for serious lapses in handling the matter.
The investigation revealed that despite being informed by the victim's parents, the school management failed to take timely action or report the incident to higher authorities. Notably, although the school administration is currently under government-appointed supervision, the incident was not reported to the administrator or the Ahmedabad City DEO, indicating continued negligence.
History of Similar Lapses
This is not the first time such negligence has come to light at this institution. A similar lapse occurred earlier during an incident involving a Class 10 student, when the school failed to inform authorities. Following that incident, former principal Emmanuel was removed from service.
The current case underscores ongoing concerns about student safety and administrative accountability in educational institutions. The district education officer's move to issue notices marks a significant step toward addressing these issues and ensuring proper oversight.