‘No truth in sexual harassment allegation against Headmaster’  

Bhubaneswar: A day after a woman teacher of Jathia Upper Primary High School in Baliapal area of Balasore district brought sexual harassment allegations against its Headmaster, School and Mass Education Minister Samir Ranjan Dash today said that the charges are not true.

Speaking to media, the Minister said as per preliminary investigation, there is no truth in the complaint lodged by the woman teacher.

However, Headmaster Ratikant Jena and two teachers, including the complainant have been transferred to ensure smooth functioning of the school, added Dash, who had earlier sought a report from the Balasore DEO in this connection.

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The woman had alleged that the Headmaster had been sexually harassing her for the last eight to nine months. The Sanskrit teacher, who joined the school in 2003, alleged that the used to cajole her frequently and took her pictures without her consent. She also alleged that the Headmaster has touched her inappropriately inside classroom and used to threaten her of dire consequences when she objects.

She had also alleged that even though she brought the matter to the notice of District Education Officer (DEO) and Collector seeking help, they remained indifferent towards her pleas. On the other hand, Jena had refuted the allegation terming it as false and baseless.