The Education Department suspended a headmistress in Palakkad, Kerala , on Wednesday . The suspension followed her failure to report a teacher accused of sexually harassing students. Police arrested the accused teacher, identified as Anil , on January 4 from his native place, Kollangode.
Officials from the District Education Officer’s office stated the headmistress was suspended for not informing police despite receiving crucial information. She knew that Anil, an upper primary Sanskrit teacher at an aided school in Malampuzha, allegedly sexually harassed a student. This incident reportedly occurred after Anil forced the student to consume liquor at his residence.
Teacher Arrested, Multiple Cases Registered
Following Anil’s arrest on January 4, police investigations revealed a pattern of abuse. Officials confirmed Anil sexually abused six other students using similar methods. So far, police at the Malampuzha station have registered six separate cases against him in connection with these incidents.
Police officials anticipate additional complaints. They expect more victims to come forward, including students who have since left the school.
School Authorities Accused of Concealment
An inquiry conducted by the Assistant Education Officer found significant lapses by the school authorities in handling the incident. Education Department officials reported that the headmistress and the school manager became aware of the sexual harassment last month. However, they allegedly concealed the matter. They did not inform the police or higher education authorities.
Officials claim the school’s actions aided the accused teacher. The Education Department issued the suspension order against the headmistress on Wednesday. Authorities also stated that steps would be initiated to remove the school manager from their position. The incident initially came to light following a report from the Special Branch.