A government primary school headmaster in Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh has been suspended following serious allegations of forcing students to offer namaz, discouraging the singing of the National Anthem, and making objectionable remarks about Hindu deities.
The accused headmaster, Jaan Mohammad, posted at a primary school in Nauhjheel block, has been placed under suspension after a preliminary inquiry found the allegations to be prima facie serious, officials said on Monday.
Allegations of Religious Coercion
According to a complaint submitted by BJP Bajna Mandal president Durgesh Pradhan, the headmaster allegedly attempted to influence and indoctrinate minor students towards a particular religion. It is claimed that children were persuaded to offer namaz during school hours, and were told that Islam was the “best religion in the world.”
The complaint further alleges that outsiders associated with the Tablighi Jamaat were invited to the school premises, where they allegedly exerted pressure on children regarding religious beliefs.
National Anthem Allegedly Discouraged
One of the most serious allegations relates to the National Anthem. As per the complaint, the National Anthem was not allowed to be sung in the school, and students attempting to sing it were reportedly scolded and reprimanded. It is also alleged that the headmaster himself did not stand during the National Anthem.
Objectionable Remarks and Conduct
The complaint also accuses the headmaster of making derogatory remarks against Hindu gods and goddesses. Additionally, allegations regarding his inappropriate behaviour towards local women have been mentioned. It is claimed that women hesitated to come forward earlier due to fear of social stigma.
Action by Education Department
Taking cognisance of the matter, the Basic Shiksha Adhikari (BSA), Mathura, ordered the immediate suspension of the headmaster based on the initial report submitted by the Block Education Officer. Following the suspension, the accused has been attached to Primary School Nagla Humayun, Mant, pending further inquiry.
A two-member inquiry committee, comprising the BEO Chhata and BEO Mant, has been constituted to conduct a detailed investigation. The committee has been directed to submit its report at the earliest.
Official Statement
The Basic Education Officer stated that preventing the National Anthem and influencing children towards a specific religion are extremely serious violations of service rules and constitutional values. “Strict legal action will be taken based on the findings of the inquiry,” the official said.
The matter has triggered strong reactions locally, with demands for stringent action if the allegations are proven true.
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