MP High Court Reinstates Teacher Suspended Over 'Objectionable' Video
Madhya Pradesh HC quashed the suspension of a Shivpuri teacher.
Top Summary
- What happened: The Madhya Pradesh High Court overturned the suspension of Saket Kumar Purohit, a government primary school teacher, who was suspended for allegedly circulating an 'objectionable' video online.
- Why it matters: The ruling highlights the importance of due process and careful consideration before suspending government employees, preventing hasty and potentially unjust actions.
- What changes for people: The teacher is reinstated, and the authorities are directed to reconsider the matter with a more thorough examination of the facts.
- Who is affected: Saket Kumar Purohit, the suspended teacher, and the Madhya Pradesh education department.
HC Criticizes Hasty Suspension
The Madhya Pradesh High Court, Gwalior bench, stayed the suspension of Saket Kumar Purohit, observing that the suspension order appeared to be issued without 'proper consideration'.
The court stated that the suspension order was issued in haste and without application of mind. Such action, the court noted, cannot be taken routinely and must be based on clear reasons.
Details of the Case
Purohit was suspended on March 13 following allegations of posting an objectionable video on social media that could disturb public order.
His suspension order stated that his actions amounted to 'gross indiscipline' and a violation of the Madhya Pradesh Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1965.
Teacher's Defense and Court's Observations
Purohit's counsel argued that the video did not contain any objectionable content. They claimed the suspension was influenced by a complaint from a local MLA and issued on the same day without independent review.
The state argued that suspension is not a punishment and does not require legal intervention.
The court observed that government guidelines recommend suspension only in serious cases or offenses attracting major penalties. It advised authorities to 'apply their minds' before taking such action and avoid 'mechanical decisions'.
"The suspension appears to have been passed in a routine manner," the court noted.
The court added that such orders can be reviewed if found arbitrary.
Court's Directions
Holding the suspension order in abeyance, the court directed the concerned authority to reconsider the matter and pass a fresh order after examining all facts.
Bengaluru Professor Arrested After Classroom Incident
In a separate incident, a medical college professor in Bengaluru, Abdul Rehman Sharif, was arrested for allegedly proposing to an MBBS student during a lecture.
The principal of the college, Divakar SV, filed a complaint with the Nelamangala Rural Police Station. The controversy erupted at Sri Siddhartha Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre.
Videos of the incident went viral, leading to protests and violence on campus. The college is governed by a trust chaired by state home minister G. Parameshwara.
What to Watch Next
The Madhya Pradesh education department will now reconsider Saket Kumar Purohit's suspension and issue a fresh order based on a thorough examination of the facts. Further updates on the Bengaluru professor's case are also expected as the police investigation progresses.