Chikkamagaluru: Three teachers at Kirugunda Government Higher Primary School in Mudigere taluk were suspended on Thursday for engaging in frequent public disputes in front of students, which significantly impacted school attendance. The student population has plummeted from 135 two years ago to just 35 currently.
The suspended teachers—Kamalamma, Veena, and Sushila—were reported to have fought openly during school hours, prompting concerns from the Chikkamagaluru Deputy Director for Public Instructions (DDPI), G.K. Puttaraju. The school had four sanctioned teacher positions, one of which was occupied by guest faculty. Following the suspensions, the department has temporarily assigned three teachers from other schools to fill the gaps.
Sources indicated that the trio had been subject to multiple complaints over the years, including allegations of pilfering groceries intended for midday meals and fostering a lack of discipline on campus. An investigation led by Block Education Officer Hemanth Kumar had previously resulted in a transfer for headmistress Kamalamma, who returned to the school in June. Veena had faced suspension in the past as well.
Reports suggest that Kamalamma had threatened local villagers and members of the school development committee to deter complaints against her. However, community members proceeded to lodge a complaint, leading to two inquiries into the matter. The DDPI had attempted to initiate suspensions earlier but faced procedural delays until the teachers were finally suspended this week.
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