Raipur: A teacher in Chhatisgarh has been suspended by the state government for thrashing students who had observed fast on the Hindu festival of Janmasthami. The teacher, Charan Markam, is posted at a government school in Kondagaon’s Girola village, some 200 km south of state capital Raipur.
As per newspaper reports, the teacher asked students of classes 7 & 8, if they observed fast during the festival. Those who responded affirmatively were segregated and beaten mercilessly. The teacher also made derogatory comments about Shri Krishna, the Hindu God. The incident happened on Tuesday.
When villagers and parents of the students made a complaint with authorities, Markam was suspended. The action was taken over the charges of violation of Chhattisgarh Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1965 by hurting religious sentiments and spreading hatred in the society.
An inquiry is ongoing. Villagers have also submitted audio and video recordings as evidence.