Affair of Dongri school must be investigated

Habib Esmail Education Trust school in Dongri

It is a dim Diwali as staffers of a Dongri school have allegedly not been paid their dues for over two months. The BMC-appointed school in-charge of the primary section, and some staffers approached the Dongri police station recently, according to a report.

There are several allegations that the school's chairman does not allow staffers to go home until midnight. Beyond the travails of staffers who claimed this is a black Diwali, the school is run down and several complaints have been received by the police station and civic authorities. The accused though has put up a robust argument in his favour and claimed that the complainants are motivated.

It is important this so-called investigation by the cops is wrapped up quickly and salaries, if withheld, are dispensed soon. One can only imagine the low morale of staffers who have not been paid for months. This will definitely affect the teaching standards and general administration of the school and students will pay the price. This investigation is certainly not a Sherlock Holmes-esque one but fairly straightforward so should wrap up fairly quickly.

If the infrastructure is crumbling and the toilets filthy, as parents cited in the report, move double quick on these fronts. The first poses a direct threat, especially to children. The second concern raised by parents can be addressed quickly. The children are unable to use the bathrooms and this can cause significant repercussions on health.

We do not want to see endless rounds of charges and counters. Instead, a quick and effective survey, surprise checks and then action to rectify wrongs are needed. Children and staffers have a right to a physically and mentally safe environment. Let us give this to them.