The Bharuch District Education Officer (DEO) Swati Raulji had on Wednesday called an investigation into the incident after receiving a complaint from the parents of one of the students whose hijab was removed.
In a concerning incident during a Class 10 Board exam in Ankleshwar town, Bharuch district, a supervisor of a private school allegedly instructed invigilators to remove the hijab of Muslim students before the mathematics exam on Wednesday.
The incident prompted swift action, with the Bharuch District Education Officer (DEO), Swati Raulji, ordering an inquiry upon receiving a complaint from the parents of one of the affected students.
Supervisor Identified and Removed:
The supervisor in question, identified as Ilaben Suratiya, who also serves as the principal of the school, was promptly removed from his post following the complaint.
The DEO emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the complaint was substantiated upon reviewing CCTV footage.
Concerns Raised by Parents:
The complaint lodged by the parents highlighted the distressing experience faced by their ward, who was allegedly asked to remove her hijab before the examination.
This incident raised significant concerns regarding the treatment of Muslim students and the violation of their rights.
Investigation and Further Action:
The DEO initiated an inquiry to investigate the matter thoroughly.
While the school provided a preliminary explanation suggesting that the veils were removed for identification purposes, the DEO emphasized the need for a comprehensive investigation to address the issue effectively.
CCTV Footage Evidence:
CCTV footage captured the actions of two invigilators and a helper, who were observed collecting hijabs from several Muslim students in the examination hall.
This evidence corroborated the allegations made by the affected student’s parents, underscoring the seriousness of the incident.
Continued Examination of the Matter:
The DEO acknowledged the possibility of additional students being subjected to similar treatment, particularly on the second day of the examination.
Efforts are underway to ascertain the full extent of the incident and ensure that appropriate measures are taken to prevent such occurrences in the future.
Commitment to Addressing Concerns:
The swift response from education authorities reflects a commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of all students, regardless of their religious or cultural background.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering an inclusive and respectful environment within educational institutions.
