Students, parents lock school gate over HM transfer and mid-day meal issues in Puri

Classes at Pulakeswari Nodal High School in Odisha’s Puri district were disrupted on Monday after students and parents locked the school, protesting against the transfer of the headmaster and alleged irregularities in the mid-day meal (MDM) scheme. 

The protest reflected growing dissatisfaction among the school community over what they described as unresolved administrative and welfare concerns.

Protest Triggered By Unresolved Complaints

According to the protesters, repeated complaints were submitted to education officials regarding alleged irregularities in the mid-day meal programme. Parents and students claimed that despite approaching authorities multiple times, no corrective steps were taken. 

With their concerns remaining unaddressed, they said they were left with no option but to lock the school gate as a form of protest.

The protesters also expressed their opposition to the transfer of the headmaster, stating that the decision had added to existing uncertainty at the school.

Allegations Of Misbehaviour By Teachers

In addition to issues related to the mid-day meal scheme, students and parents alleged instances of misbehaviour by some teachers towards students. They said such issues had affected the learning environment and contributed to growing resentment among students and guardians.

Parents present at the protest said they were concerned about both the quality of education and the welfare of children studying at the school. Students, meanwhile, said the protest was aimed at drawing attention to problems they felt were being ignored.

Police Intervention Restores Calm

On receiving information about the protest, Sadar police reached the spot and intervened to prevent the situation from escalating. Police officials held discussions with the protesters and ensured that law and order was maintained on the school premises.

While the situation was brought under control, the protest highlighted the frustration among parents and students over the lack of response to their grievances. Education department officials had not issued any immediate response at the time of reporting.