Mumbai: Outrage over Delhi Public School teacher's suspension for complaining about new principal’s behaviour; Parents concerned

Digital Desk: An Instagram photo has gone viral, showing three senior teachers from Delhi Public School, Nerul, in tears after being denied access to the school where they have worked for nearly a decade. The post has drawn criticism from both alumni and parents of kids at the school.

The following post, provided by a school alumna, claims that five senior teachers were suspended for raising their voices and protesting about the new principal's alleged "inappropriate" and "indecent" attitude. The suspension came months after their complaint. 

They even filed complaints with the NRI police station in Nerul about their ordeal in July 2023. According to sources, the instructors also approached the State Commission for Women and the National Commission for Women.

The suspension order, issued on October 20 in the midst of the academic year, has concerned the school's parents. Concurrently, many alumni have shown their support for the suspended instructors on social media. 

Three of the five suspended instructors were apparently shown in a video posted on X (previously Twitter) standing at the school's front gate, clearly disturbed and in tears after being denied access and subjected to an unpleasant encounter with security officers.

Parents are anxious about the upcoming midterm examinations. Teachers are concerned and have started a petition on social media, stating that "the sudden dismissal of seniors in the middle of the academic year threatens the students' educational continuity, rapport with teachers, and overall learning environment." 

"This action, especially in light of recent disturbing episodes at school, has heightened anxiety among students, who rely on their teachers not only for academic instruction but also for emotional support. Given the serious ramifications of this decision, we encourage the school's administration to be transparent," the petition states.

According to sources, the reasons stated in the suspension letter are "petty" and "frivolous." Meanwhile, parents plan to protest outside the school's entrance on Friday morning and have requested clarity from the management. Despite many attempts, Principal Dr. H S Vashistha was unavailable for a response.