Mathura Residents Stage Protest Over Headmaster's Suspension
In a significant development in Mathura district, approximately 250 residents of Nauhjheel town took to the streets on Wednesday to voice their strong opposition to the suspension of a government primary school headmaster. The protest comes in response to the suspension of Jaan Mohammed, the 53-year-old headmaster, who was suspended on January 30 following a complaint filed by a local BJP functionary.
Allegations and Immediate Backlash
The complaint alleged that Mohammed had forced students to offer namaz and attempted to brainwash them to follow his faith. This serious accusation prompted Basic Shiksha Adhikari (BSA) Ratan Kirti to suspend the headmaster and initiate a formal investigation. A panel was formed to look into the matter, with initial instructions for block education officers of Chhata and Maant to complete their probe within 30 days.
However, the suspension order has sparked considerable unrest among the local community. The protesters, which included parents of students attending the school, gathered to demand the immediate reinstatement of Mohammed. They described him as a hardworking and dedicated educator who has been unfairly targeted.
Community Voices and Unity
Speaking to the media, Dayaram Pathak, a resident of Naujheel where the school is located, emphasized the baseless nature of the allegations. "Allegations against Jaan Mohammad ji are baseless and action against him is wrong. There is no evidence. Such action is being taken without any inquiry," Pathak stated. He further revealed that the district magistrate has assured justice after the community's representation on Tuesday.
Pathak highlighted the remarkable unity among residents, noting that people from both Hindu and Muslim communities are opposing the action against the headmaster. "We do not have any such Hindu-Muslim issue here. We all live in harmony," he added, underscoring the peaceful coexistence in the area.
Student and Staff Perspectives
A Class 5 student named Priyanshi provided insight into the school's daily routines, confirming that the national anthem and prayer sessions are conducted on campus as per standard procedure. Meanwhile, the teaching staff, while not agreeing with the allegations against Mohammed, chose not to comment publicly on the matter.
Investigation Timeline Accelerated
In a recent development, BSA Ratan Kirti issued a new order dated February 3, significantly shortening the investigation timeline. Instead of the original 30-day period, Kirti now seeks a report within just three days. Speaking to the media about the accelerated probe, Kirti clarified, "The allegations are serious. Islamisation is a serious matter. In my order, I did not declare him guilty and directed a probe."
The Complaint Details
The written complaint filed by Durgesh Pradhan on January 30 contains several serious allegations against Headmaster Jaan Mohammed of Primary School, Naujheel First. Pradhan accused Mohammed of:
- Misleading children and motivating them towards Islam
- Forcing students to recite the Kalma
- Insulting Hindu gods and goddesses
- Not allowing the singing of the national anthem in the school
These allegations form the basis of the ongoing investigation, which the local community believes is part of a political conspiracy against the respected educator.
The protest in Nauhjheel town represents a significant community response to what residents perceive as unjust administrative action. As the investigation proceeds under the tightened deadline, all eyes remain on Mathura district authorities to deliver a fair and transparent resolution to this contentious matter that has united residents across religious lines in defense of their headmaster.
