Sopore: The Joint Director of Education, North Kashmir, Hakeem Tanvir on Tuesday termed the ransacking of a government girls’ school by protesters as “unfortunate” and “not good”, asserting that the damage caused was a loss for students, staff, and the entire Sopore town.
A teacher at the Girls Higher Secondary School in Sopore was suspended within hours of receiving a complaint of misconduct against him, Hakeem Tanvir said after visiting the vandalised premises.
“The accused teacher was suspended by the department on the same day. An inquiry was established. What happened was not good. An FIR has been filed, and the police will do their job,” the Joint Director said.
Condemning the large-scale damage caused by an angry mob, JD North said the protesters broke doors and walls, leaving glass strewn across classrooms.
“It is very sad, this institute is for our children, for Sopore. A lot of damage has been done. Classrooms could not function today,” he said.
The official appealed for collective responsibility, stating that teachers, parents, society, and the media have a role in guiding children on morality.
“Doing this, breaking everything, damaging property was not a good thing. It is a loss for all — our children and our staff. Today, the principal herself was cleaning up,” Hakeem Tanvir said.
He added that educational activities will resume from Thursday and that the department will take further action if needed, but not “unnecessary” action. On the nature of such incidents, he observed that children’s temperament varies and a balanced approach is required.
“Where there is a criminal case, the law will take its course — that is the police’s job,” he said. (KNS)
