Sanskrit teacher in Odisha’s Sundargarh suspended over sexual harassment allegations

A Sanskrit teacher posted at a government school in Sundargarh district has been placed under suspension after several girl students accused him of sexual misconduct inside the school premises. The incident has been reported from the Gurundia block, where the teacher has been serving for the past few years.

According to reports, at least seven girl students from PS Government High School, Gurundia, complained against the teacher, identified as Aditya Patra. They alleged that he misbehaved with them and sexually harassed them during school hours.

Following the complaints, the headmistress of the school submitted a written report to Gurundia police, which prompted both departmental and police action.

Suspension Order

Acting on the report, Sundargarh Additional District Education Officer (ADEO) Sarangdhar Bariha initiated disciplinary proceedings and issued a suspension order. The official communication described the allegations as amounting to gross misconduct.

The suspension order stated that Patra had been involved in “sexual harassment of girl students of the school during school hours” and directed that he be relieved from duty with immediate effect and remain under suspension until further notice.

The order further specified that Patra’s headquarters during the suspension period will be the Block Education Office, Gurundia. He has been instructed not to leave his station without prior approval of the Block Education Officer.

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Police Investigation Underway

Meanwhile, sources added that a police case has been registered based on the headmistress’s complaint. Officers of the Gurundia police station have started recording statements of the complainants and verifying the allegations.

ADEO Sarangdhar Bariha, speaking to reporters, said the suspension was necessary to ensure an impartial probe and to safeguard students during the investigation.

“The teacher has been suspended, acting on the recommendations of the Collector. A probe is on to ascertain further details of the case,” he added.