Headteacher show-caused on school meal allegation in Barishal

BARISHAL, July 3: The Department of Primary Education has initiated departmental proceedings against the acting head-teacher of Ranirhat Government Primary School in Bakerganj Upazila of the district over allegations of misappropriating food meant for students under the government’s mid-day meal programme.

According to the District Primary Education Office, Acting Head-Teacher Reshma Akter was served with a show-cause notice on June 29 after a preliminary inquiry found evidence supporting the allegations.

Officials said that on June 25, after school hours, local residents and journalists searched the teacher’s bag and allegedly recovered 24 eggs and 22 packets of buns intended for students’ mid-day meals. A video of the incident later went viral on social media and was reported by several media.

The district education office said a preliminary investigation conducted by the Upazila Primary Education Officer found the allegations to have substance. It also said the explanation submitted by the teacher in response to an earlier notice was not satisfactory.

Based on the findings, the authorities framed charges of misconduct and corruption under the Government Servants (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 2018. She has been asked to explain within 10 working days why she should not be dismissed from service or face any other disciplinary action.

Reshma Akter denied the allegations, claiming that leftover food is usually shared among teachers after distribution. She said she returns to her home in Barishal City every Thursday and that fellow teachers had given her the extra food for her pet animals. She also alleged that a group with whom she had disagreements over the school’s managing committee was attempting to malign her.

District Primary Education Officer Mohammad Mostafa Kamal said a final decision would be taken after reviewing the teacher’s written explanation and completing the departmental proceedings. He added that she would have the opportunity to present her defence in writing or through a personal hearing.