SUBHASH MISHRA
Dhanbad, Jan 11: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Madhvi Mishra has formed a committee to investigate an incident at Carmel School, Digwadih, where the principal, Sister M. Devashree, allegedly removed the shirts of 80 girl students as punishment for celebrating ‘Pen Day.’
Incident Details and Student Reactions
According to reports from guardians and Jharia MLA Ragni Singh, Class X students celebrated ‘Pen Day’ on Friday by writing messages on each other’s shirts after completing their examinations.
The principal objected to the activity and reportedly removed the students’ shirts as punishment, even though they apologized for their actions. The girls were then sent home wearing only their blazers, without their school shirts.
Guardians Lodge Complaint; MLA Joins Protest
The incident caused significant outrage among the guardians. Since the school was closed on Friday, they visited Dhanbad on Saturday to lodge a formal complaint with the Deputy Commissioner, condemning the principal’s behaviour.
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Jharia MLA Ragni Singh supported the guardians and joined their protest.
The guardians expressed that the incident had left their daughters deeply distressed, and many of the students are now reluctant to return to school.
DC Orders Inquiry; Five-Member Committee Formed
Taking the matter seriously, DC Madhvi Mishra ordered a thorough investigation. A five-member committee, comprising the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), District Education Officer (DEO), District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO), Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO), and the Jharia police station in-charge, has been formed to probe the incident.
“Some guardians have lodged complaints. We have also spoken to some of the affected students. The administration is treating this matter with urgency. Based on the committee’s findings, appropriate action will be taken,” said DC Madhvi Mishra.
MLA’s Statement
Jharia MLA Ragni Singh called the principal’s actions “shameful” and “unfortunate.” She added, “The DC has assured us that a proper investigation will be conducted, and action will be taken.”
Despite repeated attempts by media personnel, the principal of Carmel School was unavailable for comment.
