West Bengal School Fund Misappropriation Sparks Controversy

The Advanced Society for Headmasters and Headmistresses in West Bengal has called for a probe into allegations of fund misappropriation meant for student tablets. Concerns about cyber vulnerabilities and the psychological stress on school heads were raised. ASFHM stresses that headmasters are unfairly blamed for the misallocations.

The Advanced Society for Headmasters and Headmistresses (ASFHM) in West Bengal has demanded a thorough investigation into the alleged misuse of funds allocated for student tablets. Reports suggest that Rs 10,000 per student, intended for tablet purchases, never reached students, sparking concerns about cyber vulnerabilities in the Banglar Siksha portal.

ASFHM's general secretary, Chandan Maity, emphasized that school heads are not to blame, pointing to potential data tampering within the portal. Four headmasters in Purba Medinipur are under scrutiny, but ASFHM argues that these school leaders are unfairly accused due to systemic flaws.

The association urges the government to relieve headmasters from non-academic duties to prevent undue stress and harassment. ASFHM has highlighted the mental strain these controversies cause for educators and calls for a shift in operational procedures to prevent future issues.

(With inputs from agencies.)