- By Priyanka Koul
- Wed, 25 Jun 2025 03:54 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
A shocking case of mass absenteeism and forged records has emerged from a government primary school in Uttarawan, Mohanlalganj, Lucknow, where 23 out of 29 teachers were found missing during a surprise inspection. What’s more, 12 of them had fraudulently marked their attendance, and the headmaster had been absent for two consecutive days without notice. The inspection, carried out by the Block Education Officer (BEO), has triggered swift administrative action, including suspensions and halting of salaries.
The school, which serves around 400 students, was visited without prior warning as part of a routine inspection. Officials were stunned to find only six teachers present. Disturbingly, 12 teachers had already signed the attendance register in advance, an act the BEO described as “blatant forgery.” Headmaster Swadesh Agnihotri, too, had not reported for duty for two days and failed to inform education authorities.
To document the extent of the issue, the BEO recorded the inspection on video and filed a detailed report with the Basic Shiksha Adhikari (BSA), prompting an immediate response. Based on the findings, three teachers were suspended on the spot, and the salaries of 20 others were frozen. All 20 were served notices, with a directive to submit written explanations within seven days or face stricter disciplinary measures.
“This is a deeply serious matter,” said the BSA. “Not only were the teachers absent, but fake attendance entries were also found. This reflects a grave lapse in duty and complete disregard for students’ education. A thorough investigation is underway, and those responsible will not be spared.”
The fallout of such widespread dereliction of duty is already being felt inside classrooms. With just six teachers handling the academic needs of over 400 students, educational activities have nearly collapsed. Frustrated parents have expressed their anger and demanded continuous monitoring of schools to prevent such misconduct in the future.
“This is our children’s future at stake. If teachers don’t show up, what will our kids learn?" asked Rajesh Kumar, a parent of two students enrolled at the school.
In light of the incident, the BEO has been instructed to conduct random inspections at other schools in the Mohanlalganj block to uncover any similar patterns of negligence and enforce accountability.
