Headmistress’ son ‘takes classes’ in her absence at Odisha school, video goes viral

While many government educational institutions across Odisha are reeling under the shortage of teachers, a purported video of a school headmistress’ son taking a class in her absence has surfaced on the internet raising questions on the effectiveness of the 5T initiative in the education system.

The incident has been reported from Gopalpur primary school in Bhadrak district.

As per the allegations, the son of the school headmistress, identified as Mamata Das, used to take classes whenever she remains absent.

“Hearing chaos in the classroom, I went to the school and found the headmistress’ son was taking the class. When I enquired, I found one teacher was on leave and the headmistress was also not present,” said Ramakanta Barik, a villager.

“When I questioned why the headmistress was absent, her son replied that she had some work. He again said she met with an accident,” Barik added.

Refuting the allegations, the headmistress said she has sent her son to open the school as she was with her other son who was undergoing treatment after meeting with an accident.

“My elder son met with an accident and was undergoing treatment at Bhadrak hospital. I was with him. I had sent my another son to open the school believing that I might be late for the classes. He has not taken any classes,” said Mamata Das, headmistress.

Meanwhile, Block Education Officer (BEO) Pranay Nayak said necessary action will be taken against those who will be found guilty.

“An investigation into the allegation will be done and necessary action will be taken,” Nayak said.

(Reported by Basudev Das, OTV)