Ballari: The principal of a private school in Sridharagadde village of Ballari taluk has come under scrutiny for allegedly making students stand before a dead body and sing the national anthem, prompting a complaint to the DC, the SP and the school education department.
According to the complaint, Sannakki Kamakshamma, a resident of Sridharagadde, passed away on Jan 28. On that same day, M Hanumanthappa, the headmaster of Sri Guru Sangana Basaveshwara English Medium Primary School, allegedly took the students to the location where her body was placed. He made them stand in a line in front of it and sing the national anthem.
Terming the act inappropriate, some villagers recorded the incident and submitted a complaint with the video to the DC and the SP on Feb 16, seeking action.
Admitting that the incident occurred, Hanumanthappa said it was a mistake. “I am ready to apologise. Officials from the education department have visited the school and issued a warning. We will ensure that such an incident does not recur,” he said.
Ballari DDPI B Umadevi said the Ballari BEO deputed officials to the school and obtained a report. “His report will be submitted to me, after which a decision will be taken on further action,” she said.
The episode has sparked outrage among sections of the public, with many calling for strict action against the headmaster.
