Students protest transfer of headmistress
Source: Chronicle News Service

Thoubal, October 31 2024: Reacting to the recent transfer of their headmistress following allegations of corruption, students of Leisangthem Thoudang High School, Thoubal Leishangthem boycotted class on Thursday.

Speaking to reporters during the protest, the students contended that headmistress Thokchom Kavita was transfer due owing to allegations levelled by certain Thoubal-based organisations accusing her of collecting unauthorised fees from students for personal gain.

According to the students, the said organisations lodged compliant to the education minister, claiming Kavita had collected funds from students.

The students dismissed the allegations as baseless and malicious, and demanded her reinstatement within 24 hours.

Meanwhile, Leisangthem Chaokhat Lup clarified that three local clubs of Thoubal Leishangthem filed a complaint to the education minister that the headmistress collected Rs 20 from each student.

However, upon further investigation, it was confirmed that the fees had been collected with the approval of the school committee, parents and teachers since 2021 for payment to private security guard engaged to prevent theft in the school: Addressing the media, Lup president Takyenjam Muhindro confirmed that the club, along with four others, submitted a letter to the education minister based on information received regarding collection of Rs 20 fee from students.

On further enquiry, however, it came to light that the collection was approved by parents, teachers and the school committee as it was meant for salary of security guard to safeguard students' cycles, which were prone to theft.

Leisangthem Thoudang High School headmaster Irom Rajen, who was also present at the press briefing, highlighted the need to address shortage of teaching and non-teaching staff of the School, calling for immediate action to support the school's functioning.

Comment