Even as it is a due right for students to get certificates after passing an examination, complaints of depriving Class 10 students from availing matric certificates and demanding money from them for issuing the documents have triggered a serious controversy in Danagadi block in Jajpur district.
According to sources, Salijanga High School headmaster has allegedly been demanding Rs 200 from each student for the issuance of matric certificates.
Not only that, the headmaster has also been caught on camera while receiving money for issuing certificate.
The headmaster could be heard saying in the video,‘No money, no certificate. If you want to avail certificates, submit Rs 200.”
When a parent enquired about the situation, the concerned headmaster is alleged to have handed him over a receipt in the name of school development.
It is learnt that the school has been renovated under the state government’s high school transformation project 5-T initiative. Despite renovation, charging money in the name of makeover is questionable.
The headmaster, on the other hand, claimed that he has been receiving money on the direction of school management committee.
Meanwhile, the district education officer said, “Taking money for issuing certificates is unlawful. Action will be taken against the accused if he is found guilty in investigation.”
Bulu Purti, a student said, “I went to get my certificate. Our sir told me strictly that pay Rs 200 to get certificate. Else, get lost. Finding no other way, students had to pay the amount.”
Sabyasachi Mahanta, another student said, “I went to school to get my certificate. I was told to pay Rs 200 for issuance of the certificate. When I said that I have no money, I was made to return home to collect money.”
Headmaster Basant Barik clarified, “The school managing committee has asked me to collect Rs 200 money from students only for development purpose.”