Kandhamal Administration Takes Action Over Students' Tractor Ride to HSC Exams
The Kandhamal district administration has issued a showcause notice to the headmaster of a high school in Nuagaon, operated by the SC & ST development department. This action follows a concerning incident where a group of Class X students traveled to their examination center on a tractor on the first day of the High School Certificate (HSC) exam, February 19.
Safety Concerns Trigger Widespread Outcry
A preliminary investigation revealed that approximately 30 students, comprising both day scholars and hostel inmates, journeyed nearly 5 kilometers from their school to the exam center aboard a tractor. A video capturing the students climbing onto the vehicle quickly went viral on social media platforms, igniting widespread concern over student safety and prompting urgent questions about supervision protocols.
Kandhamal Collector Ved Bhushan emphasized that stringent measures would be taken against any individuals who facilitated or permitted the tractor ride. "The safety of students is paramount, and we will not tolerate such negligence," he stated, underscoring the administration's commitment to accountability.
Inquiry Launched into Teacher Responsibilities
Authorities have raised serious questions regarding the role of guide teachers, who were specifically entrusted with escorting the students to the examination center. In response, a separate inquiry is being conducted by the additional district welfare officer to ascertain the extent of teacher involvement and oversight failures.
District Welfare Officer R N Mishra confirmed that the additional DWO is expected to submit a comprehensive inquiry report by Friday. "Based on the findings, appropriate action will be initiated against the teachers found responsible," Mishra assured, highlighting the procedural steps being taken.
Community Demands Accountability
The incident has stirred significant local concern, with several residents urging the administration to hold those accountable to prevent future occurrences. The viral nature of the video amplified public demand for immediate corrective measures and stricter enforcement of safety standards during examination periods.
Officials noted that from the second day of the HSC exam onward, students either walked the 1.5-kilometer distance or utilized safer modes of transportation to reach the center, indicating a swift administrative response to rectify the situation.
Headmaster Unavailable for Comment
Attempts to contact the school's headmaster for his perspective on the incident were unsuccessful, as he could not be reached for comment. The showcause notice serves as a formal step in the disciplinary process, requiring an explanation for the lapses that led to the unsafe transportation of students.
This case underscores ongoing challenges in rural educational logistics and the critical need for robust safety protocols, especially during high-stakes examinations like the HSC.
