According to parents, the students were made to remove their shirts on the school campus, in some cases in front of male teachers. “Scared by the principal’s behavior, the girls complied on the campus itself. When some hesitated, they were coerced. While about 20 students had spare shirts, over 100 girls were sent home wearing only blazers,” alleged a parent who requested anonymity.Another parent described the incident as “mental harassment.” “We were shocked to learn that our daughters were subjected to this humiliation. The management’s actions are indefensible. It was a form of mental assault,” said the parent, adding that mobile phones were confiscated from students to ensure the incident was not recorded.The incident has reportedly left several students traumatised, with many expressing reluctance to return to school. Deputy Commissioner Madhvi Mishra has formed a five-member committee to investigate the matter. The committee comprises the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), District Education Officer (DEO), District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO), Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO), and the officer in charge of Jharia police station.“Complaints have been lodged by guardians, and we have spoken to some of the affected students. The district administration is handling this matter with urgency. Based on the committee’s findings, appropriate action will be taken,” said Ms. Mishra.
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