FIR Registered Against School Headmaster and Teacher in Yavatmal for Playing Pakistani Patriotic Song
In a controversial incident that has sparked outrage, an FIR was officially registered on Thursday against the headmaster and a teacher of a municipal school in Umarkhed town, located in Yavatmal district. The case stems from allegations that they played a Pakistani patriotic song during the school's cultural programme held on January 31, which was part of Republic Day celebrations.
Complaint Filed by BJP Councillor Leads to Police Action
Based on a detailed complaint submitted by BJP councillor Gopal Kalane from Umarkhed, authorities have taken legal action. The offence has been registered under Section 196(1)(c) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, targeting headmaster Sanchar Ulla Khan Abdul Khan and teacher Mohammad Firoz Asha. Both individuals are residents of Umarkhed and are employed at Abdul Gafur Shah Municipal Urdu School No. 2, as confirmed by local police officials.
Incident Details: Song Played During School Performance
According to the complaint, Kalane was en route from his home to the Tajpura area around 6 pm on January 31 when he heard the song "Ay Mard e Mujahid, Teri Yalgaar Kaha Hai" being played at the school. He observed that students from Class 6 were dancing to the tune while holding symbolic swords in their hands. Kalane later obtained a video clip of the performance, which he claims clearly demonstrates an attempt to spread hatred within society.
The clip mentioned in the complaint gained significant traction, going viral on local social media groups just a couple of days after the incident occurred. This widespread circulation amplified public concern and scrutiny over the event.
Allegations of Anti-National Activity and Impact on Youth
Kalane has asserted that the song in question is widely recognized as a military motivational anthem associated with Pakistan. He emphasized that performing such a Pakistani patriotic song at a school function not only hurt public sentiments but was also inherently anti-national in nature. In his statement, Kalane highlighted that the song holds national significance in Pakistan and was historically used during the 1962 India-Pakistan war.
"Presenting it before schoolchildren could adversely influence young minds," Kalane warned, expressing deep concern over the potential psychological impact on the students involved. He argued that such actions could foster divisive attitudes among impressionable youth, undermining national unity and harmony.
Police Investigation and Future Steps
Investigating officer Sagar Ingale has confirmed that a formal case has been filed against the headmaster and teacher following the complaint. "Appropriate action will be taken after conducting a thorough investigation," Ingale stated, indicating that authorities are committed to examining all aspects of the incident before proceeding with any legal measures.
The case has drawn attention to broader issues of cultural sensitivity and national security in educational settings, prompting discussions about the responsibilities of school administrators in curating appropriate content for student events. As the investigation unfolds, the community awaits further developments, with many calling for stringent measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
