Mid-Day Meal Wheat Rots in Meerut School Due to Alleged Negligence
In a shocking incident highlighting administrative lapses, about 10 quintals of wheat meant for mid-day meals at the Mamepur government primary school in Meerut were found completely rotten on Wednesday. The wheat had been stored in a school storeroom but became inaccessible and spoiled over months, allegedly due to negligence by a former teacher.
Former Teacher Withheld Keys and Documents
The school in-charge, Amit Kumar, revealed that Vipin Kumar, a teacher who was suspended several months prior, failed to hand over the storeroom keys and crucial administrative documents to the school administration. This prevented access to the stocked wheat, leading to its deterioration. Amit Kumar stated, "Vipin Kumar, who was suspended several months ago, failed to hand over the storeroom keys and crucial documents to the school administration. As a result, the stocked wheat remained locked and inaccessible for months."
Repeated Attempts for Resolution Ignored
Kumar detailed his efforts to resolve the situation, explaining that he repeatedly tried to contact Vipin Kumar to request the keys but received no response. He also wrote multiple letters to the Basic Shiksha Adhikari (BSA), Asha Chaudhary, seeking her intervention, yet no action was taken. This lack of response exacerbated the problem, allowing the wheat to spoil without any preventive measures.
Background of the Suspended Teacher
A staff member provided context, noting, "Vipin Kumar was suspended after he reported to school in an inebriated state. He was later reinstated at another school." This prior disciplinary issue underscores the challenges in managing personnel and resources within the education system.
Discovery and Official Response
When officials finally intervened and the storeroom was opened on Wednesday, the wheat was found rotten and unfit for consumption. BSA Asha Chaudhary responded to the incident by stating, "An inquiry has been ordered in the matter." This step aims to investigate the negligence and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Implications for Mid-Day Meal Scheme
The incident raises serious concerns about the management of resources under the mid-day meal scheme, which is crucial for child nutrition in government schools. The loss of 10 quintals of wheat not only represents a waste of public funds but also potentially deprives students of essential meals. It highlights the need for stricter oversight and accountability in school administration to ensure such negligence does not compromise student welfare.
