The Chief Education Officer (CEO) of Doda district has constituted an enquiry committee to investigate a viral video posted on the Facebook page of local social activist Raja Shakeel, which allegedly shows students of Government Middle School (GMS) Sichal reciting a prayer deemed inappropriate for minors. The order, issued on November 6, also withholds the salary of a teacher at the school pending the outcome of the probe.
The video in question, which has sparked concerns over its potential psychological impact on young children, reportedly depicts students chanting phrases that promote violence. In a formal complaint addressed to the CEO, Mr. Shakeel alleged that students at GMS Sichal, under Halaran Zone Bhatyass, were being subjected to “extremist and violent teachings,” including instructions to “apply tilak with blood” and “perform aarti with bullets” (Khoon se tilak karo, goliyon se aarti).
Describing such conduct as a “serious violation of constitutional and moral principles,” the activist urged immediate suspension of the involved teacher(s), registration of an FIR under relevant laws for promoting communal hatred and endangering minors, and a public affirmation of the department’s commitment to secular education.
In response, the CEO’s office has formed a three-member committee comprising principals from nearby higher secondary schools: Mtr. Shafiqa Banoo (HSS Chilli), Sh. Gulshan Kumar (HSS Jakyas), and Sh. Akhter Ali (HSS Chanti). The panel has been directed to conduct a thorough investigation and submit a factual report, along with specific comments and recommendations, within two days.
The order further states that the salary of Mr. Chander Kumar, a teacher at GMS Sichal, will remain withheld until the enquiry is completed. “This order is issued in the interest of maintaining decorum and safeguarding the welfare of students,” the directive reads.
Copies of the order have been marked to the District Development Commissioner, Doda, for information; the Director of School Education, Jammu; and the principals of the concerned schools for compliance.
The Chenab Times News Desk