Hazaribagh: A serious case has emerged from a government school in Jharkhand’s Hazaribagh district, where nearly two dozen schoolgirls have accused the acting headmaster of molestation and inappropriate conduct.
The matter came to light on April 11 when two students contacted the Child Helpline (1098) and reported alleged sexual misconduct by the headmaster of a school under the Charhi police station area. Following the complaint, a child protection team, along with local police, reached the school and began a preliminary investigation.
As inquiries progressed, more students came forward with similar allegations. Around 24 girls, in their statements before the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), described repeated instances of abuse, indicating a disturbing pattern of behaviour that had continued for some time.
According to the students, the headmaster would call them individually under the pretext of helping with studies and allegedly behave inappropriately. Some also claimed they were threatened with expulsion or poor academic performance if they spoke about the incidents, which kept them silent for months.
Taking the matter seriously, the CWC directed the police to register a case under relevant sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and other applicable laws. An FIR has now been filed against the accused.
The incident has sparked anger among parents and local residents, with many gathering at the police station to demand immediate arrest and strict action.
District officials have acknowledged the issue and indicated that departmental action will also be initiated against the headmaster. Meanwhile, police said a detailed investigation is underway, and statements of the affected students are being recorded.
With inputs from IANS