Mathura School Principal Suspended Over Religious Allegations
A government primary school principal in Mathura district has been suspended with immediate effect after being accused by a local politician of forcing students to offer namaz and brainwashing children to follow his faith. The 53-year-old principal, Jaan Mohammed, faces serious allegations that have sparked a formal investigation by education authorities.
Complaint and Immediate Action
Basic Shiksha Adhikari (BSA) Ratan Kirti confirmed on Monday that the suspension followed a complaint from a BJP functionary, Durgesh Pradhan. In a letter dated January 30, Pradhan alleged that Jaan Mohammed misleads children and motivates them towards his religion, including making them recite Kalma. He further claimed that the principal does not allow the singing of the National Anthem in the school and scolds children who attempt to do so.
Kirti stated that a probe was initiated promptly, and after a preliminary inquiry, the block education officer took action. The principal was found, prima facie, guilty of not discharging his official duties properly and violating UP Govt Servant (Discipline And Appeal) Rules, 1999, he explained.
Investigation and Principal's Defense
Terming the allegations as serious, Kirti emphasized that the suspension is an interim measure to ensure a fair investigation. A final call will be taken once the probe panel submits its findings, he added, highlighting the department's commitment to due process.
In response, the suspended principal, Jaan Mohammed, has vehemently denied the accusations. He told TOI that he has served at the same school for 20 years and received the suspension letter on Sunday through an employee. It is a false case, he asserted, adding that local residents know the truth. Mohammed noted that the school has 235 students—147 Hindus and 88 Muslims—and all are like his children, with their education being his main priority.
He also clarified that the National Anthem is played regularly at the school in a systematic manner. Mohammed, who has been involved with the SIR exercise in Uttar Pradesh, stated, I'll soon present my side of the case before the probe panel, expressing confidence in clearing his name.
Background and Community Impact
The complaint by Durgesh Pradhan reportedly came after some parents approached him about the principal's conduct, raising concerns over religious influence in the educational environment. This incident has drawn attention to issues of secularism and discipline in government schools, particularly in sensitive regions like Mathura.
As the investigation unfolds, stakeholders await the probe panel's findings to determine the veracity of the allegations. The case underscores the importance of maintaining a neutral and inclusive atmosphere in educational institutions, free from religious bias or coercion.
