A Class VIII girl from a Scheduled Caste community was allegedly made to take her annual examination outside the classroom by a private school in Senguttaipalayam, near Pollachi, on Wednesday—reportedly because she was menstruating. A video showing her writing the paper on the steps went viral, triggering public outrage and an official investigation.
Following the incident, Director of Matriculation Schools A Palanisamy confirmed that educational officials have been asked to issue a show-cause notice to the school. A circular will also be sent to all schools in the district, instructing them to avoid such discriminatory practices.
Coimbatore Chief Educational Officer R Balamurali and DEO for private schools Punitha Anthonyammal visited the school on Thursday to question the administration. Assistant Superintendent of Police Shristi Singh has also launched an inquiry. Minister V Senthilbalaji said appropriate action would follow based on the police findings.
The student’s father explained that his daughter had recently attained puberty and skipped school for a few days. Before returning to write two exams, her parents requested the teachers to provide her with a separate desk in the hall to ensure her comfort. However, the school allegedly ignored the request and made her sit outside.
The father, who said he didn’t suspect caste bias, was stunned when school staff dismissed their concern with, “Is this a big problem?”
Officials and school authorities have yet to comment.
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