Bhavna Patel, an “absent” teacher at Panchha Primary School in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district, who is currently residing in Chicago, USA, released a video statement claiming that she had secured a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the District Panchayat and completed all necessary paperwork before moving abroad.
She claimed that her absence was properly documented and has evidence to support her compliance with regulations.
The situation has raised the hackles of the state education department. Principal Parul Mehta has alleged that despite Patel’s claims, she has been absent from the school for nearly eight years and reportedly only returning for one month every year.
Adding to this shocking yet deteriorating state of education, the education officer has contradicted Mehta’s claim, stating that Patel’s ‘absence has been closer to eight months, not the eight years as alleged by Mehta’.
This discrepancy has further complicated the situation, raising questions about Patel’s employment status and adherence to school regulations.
Government’s Action
In response to the incident, Gujarat’s Minister of State for Education, Praful Pansheriya, has initiated an investigation. Pansheriya announced that a report would be submitted with actions to be determined based on its findings.
He emphasised the government’s commitment to addressing unauthorised absenteeism and maintaining the integrity of the education system.
Gujarat Education Minister Kuber Dindor said, “I have ordered an inquiry and sought a report from district officials. We do not allow such practice. If found guilty of unauthorised absence, we will punish the teacher and recover the salary she was paid.”
This incident highlights a broader issue of teachers residing abroad while remaining on payroll with similar cases reported involving educators in the United States and Canada.
A similar case in Tharad
There has been yet another instance reported from Tharad that is similar, in which the education of the students was seriously compromised by the absence of a teacher named Darshan from the school for two years. It has been found that he resides in Canada at present.
Also Read: Gujarat Model Exposed: Government School Teacher Found Drawing Salary Whilst Living In Chicago!
