Uttar Pradesh: Probe launched into allegations of caste-based discrimination against Class 7 student

BALLIA: The Basic Education Department of Uttar Pradesh has launched an inquiry into allegations of caste-based discrimination against a Class 7 student belonging to the Backward Class and his expulsion from a private school in Ballia district, an official said on Friday.

According to the complaint submitted to the block education officer, the student's uncle Arjun Rajbhar alleged that his nephew, Ayush, studies in Class 7 at a private school in the Sikandarpur area.

The complaint alleged that the student's father, Bhim Rajbhar, works outside the district as a labourer and sometimes there is a delay in paying the school fees.

However, the dues are subsequently cleared, it said. According to the complaint, when Ayush went to school on September 25, the principal allegedly sent him out of the school and he was not allowed to appear in an examination scheduled for the following day.

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School manager used casteist slurs

When the school reopened on September 28 after a two-day holiday, the school's manager allegedly misbehaved with Ayush and used casteist slurs against him, the complaint alleged. Speaking to reporters, the student alleged that he was repeatedly prevented from appearing in examinations and sent away from the school after being reprimanded. He also alleged that he was told to study at a government school.

Ballia District Basic Education Officer (BSA) Manish Kumar Singh told PTI that he took cognisance of the matter and sent the block education officer to the spot to conduct an inquiry. "The school has also been issued a notice. Necessary action will be taken against the school and those found responsible after the inquiry," Singh said. The allegations are being investigated.