Parents outraged over Headmaster shaving hair off 15 students

In Badalgachhi, Naogaon, a headmaster has been accused of cutting the hair of at least 15 students from the fourth and fifth grades at Palsha Government Primary School. It is alleged that the headmaster used scissors to chop their hair into uneven, patchy tufts, ruining their hairstyles and leaving parents outraged.

The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon (November 7) at the Palsha Government Primary School in Kola Union, sparking tension in the area. According to the parents, this is not the first time the headmaster has subjected students to physical and mental abuse, including beatings.

The headmaster in question has been identified as Shahidul Islam. Parents have stated that they intend to file a formal written complaint against him with the Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) and the Upazila Primary Education Office.

Local sources report that the headmaster used scissors to cut the hair of at least 15 students in the fourth and fifth grades into uneven patches, destroying their natural hairstyles and leaving the children feeling deeply embarrassed.

Parents further allege that the headmaster has a history of beating students; in one instance, he even reportedly cut off part of a student's eyebrow. They are now questioning the motive behind these actions.

A video of the incident has circulated on Facebook, triggering widespread discussion and criticism across the Upazila. In the footage, students and parents explain that the headmaster had disfigured the children's hair by cutting it into patchy tufts. They also claim that the headmaster frequently beats the students, often for no apparent reason.

A parent named Milon said, "I wasn't home at the time. When I returned, I discovered that my son, Fahamud Hossain, had his hair chopped into uneven patches, even though he previously had a normal hairstyle. This led to a confrontation at the school today."

Another parent, Rocket Hossain, added, "About 15 students had their hair cut into patchy tufts. Having their hair cut like this, especially in the middle of winter, has left the children in a very embarrassing situation. The headmaster has cut a student's eyebrow hair in the past as well. He frequently behaves this way toward the students. We demand proper justice for this incident."

Another parent, Mitu Banu, alleged, "A few days ago, my son was beaten so severely that both his legs were left bleeding. He is now too afraid to go to school. If a teacher treats children this way, how can they possibly feel safe at school? We demand proper justice."

When asked about the allegations, Shahidul Islam, the headmaster of Kolar Palsha Government Primary School, admitted that the incident took place. Over the phone, he stated, "The children's hair had grown quite long and was falling over their eyes. That is why I cut the hair of a few students."

When questioned as to why he chose to cut the hair in such a patchy, uneven manner, rather than calling in a barber or consulting with the parents, he replied, "They looked untidy, so I trimmed the hair above their foreheads."

Regarding the matter, Md. Saidur Rahman, the acting education officer at the Upazila Primary Education Office, said, "I have heard about the incident. I am currently away for training. Assistant Education Officer Ruhul Amin is investigating why the students' hair was cut in this manner."

Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Israt Jahan Shoni stated, "I have been informed of the incident. I have instructed the Primary Education Officer to take appropriate action."

-    SC/NS