Government school headmasters across Telangana state of India have warned of statewide protests if action is not taken against those involved in the assault of a 60-year-old Dalit headmaster in Ranga Reddy district. The attack carried out by members of VHP and Bajrang Dal, has triggered outrage among Dalit organisations and educators, who see it as a direct assault on dignity and justice. The incident occurred on December 21, when headmaster P. Ramulu of a Government High School in Thukkuguda Mandal asked a Class VIII student to recite mathematical tables. The student, participating in the Ayyappa Deeksha ritual, later alleged he was kicked by the headmaster.

This accusation, widely circulated via WhatsApp, led to a mob storming the school. Clad in Ayyappa Swamy attire, the assailants manhandled Ramulu, tore his clothes, and forced him to apologise to the student. Advocate P. Vishnu condemned the attack, calling it “a gross violation of dignity” and demanded attempt-to-murder charges against the attackers. Headmasters statewide have expressed solidarity with Ramulu, emphasising the need to ensure the safety and authority of educators. They have called for swift justice and warned of mass protests if the authorities fail to act decisively.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)