In a significant development, the Allahabad High Court has stepped in to ensure the continuation of education for three boys expelled from a private school in Amroha, Uttar Pradesh, over allegations related to bringing non-vegetarian food in their tiffins. The Bench of Justice Siddharth and Justice Subhash Chandra Sharma directed the Amroha District Magistrate (DM) to facilitate the admission of the children to another CBSE-affiliated school within two weeks.
In its strongly worded interim order, the Court stated:
“The respondent no. 10 District Magistrate, Amroha, is directed to get the petitioner nos. 2, 3 and 4 namely Master Rihan Khan (Minor), Master Shahbaz Khan (Minor), and Master Shami Khan (Minor), sons of Shri Siraj Khan, in some other school affiliated to C.B.S.E. Board within a period of two weeks and file an affidavit of compliance before this Court. Put up this case as a fresh case on 06.01.2025 before this Court. In case no affidavit is filed by District Magistrate, Amroha, he shall be personally present on the next date.”
Allegations and Fallout
The incident began when the principal of the private school expelled a class 3 student and his younger siblings, citing their alleged non-vegetarian tiffin and accusing the boy of promoting religious fundamentalism. According to the mother, the principal labeled her son as someone intending to “destroy temples” and accused him of attempting to “convert classmates to Islam by feeding them non-vegetarian food.”
A viral video of the mother confronting the school principal sparked public outrage and prompted official intervention. Although an investigative committee cleared the principal of allegations of physical abuse, it criticized his use of inappropriate language.
Claims and Relief Sought
The children’s mother approached the High Court, claiming the school’s actions violated their fundamental right to education. She alleged that her child was beaten and confined to an empty room, a charge the principal denied.
The plea highlighted the potential long-term damage to the children’s education, socialization, and future career prospects, urging the Court to direct the State to secure admissions in an alternative school. The petition also sought compensation and action against the principal for alleged harassment and discrimination.
Court’s Stand
The High Court emphasized the urgency of resolving the matter to protect the children’s right to education. It directed swift action, warning that non-compliance would compel the Amroha DM to appear personally at the next hearing on January 6, 2025.
Case: Sabra & 3 Ors vs State & Ors – Available on LAWFYI.IO
