Gorakhpur Teacher Suicide Case: FIR Filed Against Education Officials
In a tragic incident that has shocked the educational community, a 37-year-old teacher from Gorakhpur died by suicide, accusing officials of the education department of severe harassment. The police have now taken action by registering a First Information Report (FIR) against Deoria Basic Shiksha Adhikari (BSA) Shalini Singh, clerk Sanjeev Singh, and other unidentified officials. The charges include abetment to suicide and criminal intimidation, following allegations of extortion and mental torture.
Details of the Suicide and Allegations
Krishna Mohan Singh, a resident of the Gulriha area, took his own life on the night of February 20–21 at his residence. Before this extreme step, he left behind a four-page suicide note and recorded a video. In these, he accused education department officials and clerical staff of demanding Rs 16 lakh under the pretext of securing his job and subjecting him to months of mental harassment.
According to the complaint filed by his wife, Gudiya Singh, at the Gulariha police station, Krishna Mohan was appointed as an assistant teacher in 2016 in Deoria's Gauri Bazar. However, his appointment was cancelled in 2023 along with two others due to alleged irregularities. The case reached the Allahabad High Court, which initially ruled in their favor in April 2022. Despite this, subsequent rejection orders from the BSA office led to further legal battles.
Court Rulings and Alleged Extortion
On February 13 of last year, the high court quashed the rejection and issued fresh orders. During this prolonged process, the family claims that officials demanded Rs 16 lakh each from the three teachers for reinstatement. Krishna Mohan's family paid a substantial amount by arranging loans and mortgaging jewellery, but he was still pressured for more money.
On February 20, he was summoned to the Deoria office, where he was allegedly humiliated and threatened with false cases. Hours after this traumatic experience, he died by suicide at his home. Gudiya Singh detailed these events in her FIR, highlighting the relentless pressure and intimidation faced by her husband.
Police Action and Official Response
The superintendent of police, City, Gorakhpur, Abhinav Tyagi, confirmed that the suicide note and video have been seized for examination by the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL). An FIR has been registered at Gulriha police station against BSA Shalini Singh, clerk Sanjeev Singh, and other unidentified officials.
In response to the video evidence, the District Magistrate of Deoria, Divya Mittal, has taken cognizance of the matter. A three-member inquiry committee has been formed to investigate the allegations thoroughly. Additionally, clerk Sanjeev Singh has been suspended pending the outcome of the probe.
Broader Implications and Community Impact
This case has raised serious concerns about corruption and harassment within the education system. It underscores the vulnerabilities faced by teachers and other employees who may be subjected to exploitation by officials. The incident has sparked calls for stricter oversight and accountability in educational departments to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities are urged to ensure justice for Krishna Mohan Singh and his family. The community awaits the findings of the inquiry committee, hoping it will lead to systemic reforms and better protection for educators across the region.
