Gurgaon: Trouble is brewing for a science teacher — at the centre of a controversy — of a govt girls’ senior secondary school.Complaints of alleged misconduct are emerging from multiple classes now. Days after — May 5, to be precise — 27 students formally accused the teacher of the school — which is based in the Jacobpura area of Old Gurgaon — of inappropriate behaviour, several others have come forward with similar allegations during the ongoing inquiry.Sources said that during the interactions with the members of the inquiry committee, students from other classes also shared similar experiences, indicating that the scope of the case may be wider than initially reported. In an effort to ensure a thorough and unbiased probe, members of the panel recorded statements not only within the school premises but also visited the homes of several students and their families.The case has drawn significant attention as it involves one of the largest govt girls’ schools in the district, with nearly 3,000 students enrolled. The controversy began on April 24, when students submitted a written complaint to the school principal alleging that the teacher made double-meaning remarks in class, passed objectionable comments and threatened to deduct marks or fail them if they protested.Following the complaint, a police case was registered last week at the City Police Station in Gurgaon based on the principal’s statement, and investigations were under way since then.A district-level committee constituted to investigate the matter has, in its preliminary findings, held the teacher prima facie guilty. The final report is now being prepared and will be submitted to the deputy commissioner, the directorate of education and other concerned authorities, based on which strict action, including suspension, is likely.Multiple agencies — including the education department, police, the women’s commission and child protection bodies — are conducting parallel investigations.According to the district education officer, the inquiry is in its final stage and appropriate action will be taken as per rules once the report is submitted. DEO Indu Boken said that the committee’s report is almost complete and will be reviewed thoroughly. “Strict action will be taken as per rules once the findings are finalised. The safety and dignity of students are our top priority, and any negligence at any level will not be tolerated,” she said.Meanwhile, counselling sessions for the affected students are being conducted before the child welfare committee, and steps are being taken to record their statements before a judicial authority to strengthen the case.The accused teacher has also undergone medical examinations at multiple stages. Initially examined by a panel under the chief medical officer at the district level, he was later referred to PGI Rohtak for further evaluation. The medical report is awaited and will be attached to the final inquiry findings.Some parents have questioned the role of a female staffer and expressed anger over the alleged disclosure of students’ identities. Taking note of the seriousness of the matter, the commission has summoned the school principal in person and sought detailed records, including the school’s complaint register, internal inquiry reports and documents related to the school management and child protection committees. Clear instructions have also been issued to ensure that no student is subjected to pressure or intimidation during the investigation.
