After Kolar, state-run school headmistress in Bengaluru arrested for forcing students to clean toilets

According to the police, Lakshmidevamma, the headmistress of Government Model Higher Primary School in Andrahalli under Yeshwanthpur police limits, was produced before a magistrate and remanded in 14-day judicial custody at Central Prison, Bengaluru.

On Friday after the video went viral, the deputy director of Public Instruction (DDPI-North) issued a government order initiating disciplinary action against Lakshmidevamma, for dereliction of duty and suspending her.

A police officer said a video showing Class 6 students cleaning toilets went viral on social media. After the video went viral, Block Education Officer (BEO) Anjanappa filed a complaint with Byadarahalli police.

Parents of the students and members of the Jaya Karnataka Maharishi Valmiki Trust staged a protest outside the school on Friday morning after the students were forced to clean toilets. The parents alleged that the school authorities promised students chocolates and chikkis for cleaning the toilets.

On Saturday, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah called the incidents “inhumane” and assured action would be taken against those guilty.

“Officials of the Department of Education have already taken immediate action against the teachers responsible for the cases that have been reported. I have instructed the Minister of Primary Education to identify and take strict action against the perpetrators if such incidents are occurring in other schools,” said Siddaramaiah.

“I have also informed the Minister of Social Welfare to keep a watch on the hostels of schools and colleges. I have advised the Minister of Primary Education that every school must have separate toilet facilities for boys and girls and to appoint staff to clean these toilets daily. I have also directed to conduct a survey and get reports from the District Education Officers on this matter,” he said.