Authorities in the Harbhanga block in Boudh district have taken strict action against a primary school teacher accused of repeatedly attending school under the influence of alcohol.
Block Education Officer Hadibandhu Behera suspended one day’s salary of Suramani Mallik, a teacher at Jharakhman Primary School, and initiated a departmental inquiry. The decision followed multiple complaints from parents and villagers about his misconduct.
According to reports, Mallik often arrived at school intoxicated, ignored teaching duties, and spent time on his mobile phone instead of instructing students. He frequently came late and remained absent without informing higher officials.
Earlier, on November 27, the BEO had issued show-cause notices to 10 teachers for negligence of duty and withheld their salaries for one day. However, Mallik’s repeated misconduct drew sharper action.
After verifying complaints, the department confirmed the allegations and launched a formal inquiry. Since Mallik failed to respond to the earlier notice, the BEO ordered salary suspension and directed him to submit an explanation within 30 days (Letter No. 3114).
Behera urged all teachers to attend school on time, focus on students’ education, and uphold discipline. He stressed that the department will not tolerate negligence and will continue to enforce accountability to improve the education system.
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