Supaul Teacher Arrested for Alleged Pro-Jinnah Slogans During Republic Day Ceremony
A government school teacher in Bihar's Supaul district has been arrested following allegations that he compelled students to chant pro-Jinnah slogans during the Republic Day flag-unfurling ceremony. The incident, which occurred on Monday, has triggered widespread condemnation and multiple investigations by authorities.
Details of the Controversial Incident
The accused, identified as Mohammad Mansoor Alam, served as a teacher at Adarsh Middle School cum Upgraded High School in Abhuar village under Kishanpur block. According to reports, Alam allegedly raised slogans such as "Jinnah Zindabad" (long live Jinnah) during or shortly after the national anthem and flag-hoisting ceremony. A viral video circulating on social media appears to show students responding "amar rahe" to the teacher's call, though the authenticity of this footage has not been independently verified.
Students have further alleged that Alam had previously made comparisons between Pakistan and heaven, attempting to influence young minds with such perspectives. These claims have added fuel to the controversy surrounding the teacher's conduct during a national festival.
Official Response and Legal Action
The school's headmaster, Dhananjay Tiwari, filed a formal written complaint at Kishanpur police station, accusing Alam of:
- Undermining the school's dignity and reputation
- Insulting national sovereignty and patriotic sentiments
- Violating the spirit and principles of the Indian Constitution
Following the complaint and supporting evidence—including student statements and video footage—police acted swiftly to arrest the teacher. Supaul Superintendent of Police Sharath RS confirmed the arrest, describing the conduct during a national festival as "extremely serious."
"The teacher's remark came during his speech at the Republic Day programme at the school. An FIR was registered at Kishanpur police station, and the matter is under investigation. The police are examining all the evidence. Strict legal action will be taken as per the law," SP Sharath RS told media outlets.
Multiple Investigations Underway
In addition to the criminal investigation, the education department has launched a separate departmental inquiry into the teacher's conduct. This dual approach ensures that both legal and administrative consequences will be thoroughly examined. The case has highlighted concerns about ideological influences in educational institutions and the importance of maintaining national integrity during official ceremonies.
Authorities are continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses to determine the full extent of the incident. The swift response from both school administration and law enforcement demonstrates the seriousness with which such allegations are being treated in the current climate.
