Bhopal: Students from Sarojini Naidu Government Girls Higher Secondary School in Bhopal organized a sit-in protest on Wednesday, demanding action against a newly-appointed teacher, Varsha Jha, who they claim has imposed severe punishments. Hundreds of girls gathered on campus, chanting slogans to express their grievances. They also broke the furniture of classrooms and also damaged the material in the school lab.
The protest erupted against Jha, who has been in her position for just a month. Following pressure from the students, she issued an apology.
The demonstration drew the attention of local MLA Arif Masood, who arrived on the scene to check on a student who fainted during the protest and was subsequently taken to a nearby hospital. After discussions with the school administration and the Madhya Pradesh School Open Board, Masood announced that the teacher has been removed from her position.
Students reported that Jha enforced harsh disciplinary measures, such as making them stand outside in the Sun for extended periods if they arrived even slightly late. One student recounted, “If we are just five minutes late, we are not allowed into the classroom and must stand outside for one to two hours. Some of us have fainted from the heat.”
Were forced to perform cleaning tasks: Students
Additionally, students alleged that they were forced to perform cleaning tasks around the school. A Class 11 student shared, “We have cleaned the classroom, cut grass, and lifted stones. We questioned what the focus on education is in our school.”
The school management has urged the girls to end the protest and return to classes, promising to address their concerns. PR Tiwari, the Director of the Madhya Pradesh Open School Board, requested one month to resolve the issues, stating that the accused teacher has been placed on official leave and that all grievances will be addressed.
Despite the teacher’s apology and the management’s assurances, the students continued their protests until MLA Arif Masood confirmed her removal, at which point the agitation subsided.
