A controversy erupted at KPS Primary School in Amrita village, Shivamogga district, Karnataka, when allegations arose that a seven-year-old Brahmin girl was coerced into consuming eggs by her teachers during the mid-day meal. The family of the child has claimed that she was pressured to eat eggs under the threat of punishment, causing her to fall ill.
Family's Accusations and Response:
The child's father, Srikanth, asserted that his daughter's health deteriorated after being persistently 'force-fed' eggs for more than a week. He emphasized the violation of their religious beliefs, stating that as Brahmins, consuming non-vegetarian items, including eggs, is strictly prohibited according to their religious code. Srikanth demanded stringent action against the implicated teacher and the school's headmaster.
The family promptly lodged a complaint with the Block Education Office (BEO) concerning the alleged incident.
Conflicting Claims:
The accused teacher refuted the allegations, contending that his intention was merely to encourage healthy eating habits among the children. According to the family's account, however, the teacher allegedly pressured, threatened, and manipulated the girl into eating eggs, despite her objections, asserting that consuming eggs was acceptable for Brahmins.
Differing Perspectives:
Upon investigation, education officials visited the school and stated that, based on preliminary findings, the child had voluntarily asked for eggs during the meal and was not forced to eat them. A senior education department official clarified that while the teacher inquired which students wanted eggs, no coercion was exercised, and no student was compelled to consume them.
Authorities' Response:
The Deputy Director of the Public Education Department in Shivamogga, Parameshwarappa CR, highlighted that they took the matter seriously but found no evidence of force-feeding eggs to the student. He emphasized that if any violations of rules were identified, strict action would be taken against the concerned teachers.
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials are reviewing the reports provided by the block education officer to ensure compliance with regulations and appropriate actions if necessary.
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