By TC News Desk
Agartala, 16th September 2024: Widespread disorder has gripped Lalchara Class 12 Girls’ School in Khowai sparking concerns among parents and students alike. The turbulence reportedly stems from the controversial appointments of the teacher-in-charge Sushmita Shil and science teacher Gopa Debroy, who is currently serving on deputation.
According to multiple sources, the trouble began following the retirement of the former headmaster Naresh Debbarma on July 31. With his departure, the headmaster position has remained vacant, leading to confusion over leadership. Despite the presence of more experienced teachers, Sushmita Shil, who has been in service for only six years was named as the acting teacher-in-charge. This decision, made without adherence to established rules, has fueled unrest among both staff and students. “No one with proper experience or seniority wanted the responsibility, so Sushmita Shil was appointed,” a source within the school stated.
The English teacher’s leadership has been described by some as autocratic. “It feels like a monkey with a stick,” one teacher anonymously expressed, likening Shil’s style to uncontrolled and reckless. Her decisions have allegedly caused severe disruptions, with one teacher stating, “There’s a complete breakdown of communication between staff. She does whatever she wants.”
The discord has not only impacted the school’s internal operations but also student learning. According to reports, studies for Class 11 and 12 students, consisting of 52 and 32 students respectively have been significantly affected. “There are no proper classes, teachers are not available, and students are falling behind,” a concerned parent noted.
Further compounding the issue is the deputation of science teacher Gopa Debroy, who is alleged to have formed a teachers’ council without following protocols, even violating election regulations during the recent panchayat elections. A source close to the matter revealed, “Gopa declared herself the council secretary during the election period, completely disregarding proper procedure.”
Amid the chaos, parents and residents of Lalchara have begun demanding the swift appointment of a qualified headmaster to restore order. “If the school doesn’t get proper leadership soon, the future of our children is at stake,” one parent warned.
Despite the grievances, the situation at the school has continued to worsen. Reports suggest that classes rarely begin on time, with some teachers arriving as late as 11 AM and ending the school day by 2 PM. An anonymous staff member revealed, “We feel completely powerless. The current administration is unresponsive to concerns.”
Both teachers Shil and Debroy have also been accused of further misconduct. It has been alleged that Shil, as an English teacher, coerced students into taking private tuition from her, threatening to lower their grades if they refused. “There’s no choice. If my daughter doesn’t attend her tuition, her English marks will drop,” one parent alleged.
In the wake of these reports, the community is calling for action from higher authorities. “We need intervention from the education department to save the students. The chaos cannot continue,” a local resident insisted.
As tensions rise, the future of Lalchara Class 12 Girls’ School remains uncertain, with education for many students at risk amidst a growing leadership crisis.
