THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Daltonganj, Nov. 19: Three Class 8 students of Government Eklavya Vidyalaya Mangra in Latehar district were sent home after a late-night prank frightened their classmates. The school authorities said the decision was made to ensure a safe environment and help the girls understand residential school discipline.
The students, recently admitted during the Dussehra period, allegedly created spooky scenes at night, pretending to engage in unusual or supernatural activities. Their actions made several girls anxious, prompting complaints to the school management.
School Cites Safety, Not Punishment
According to the school, the girls’ behaviour had continued for a few nights. When discomfort among students increased, the management decided to send the three home temporarily.
Praveen Kumar Gagrai, Director of the Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA) Latehar, confirmed, “These girls are in Class 8. Their parents have been asked to counsel them so they avoid such pranks. Sending them home is meant to rebuild their confidence in living and studying in a classroom environment.”
Gagrai added that the school itself started only in July, and the girls appear homesick and not yet adapted to a structured residential setup.
Not Expelled, Clarifies ITDA
Rubbishing rumours of expulsion, Gagrai said, “There is nothing like removal or expulsion. They are with their parents only for counselling. They can rejoin classes once their parents feel assured they will not repeat the prank.”
He stressed that the move was not punitive. “Children do frighten others of their age. Haven’t we done this in our childhood? What is the point of blowing up this incident?”
Concerns Over Media Involvement
Gagrai expressed displeasure that a member of the Child Welfare Committee visited the school with mediapersons. “Fact-finding is fine, but bringing media into the campus should be avoided. A school’s reputation must be safeguarded.”
