Prayagraj: Allahabad High Court has ordered that the suspension of a Sambhal district teacher be kept in abeyance pending completion of a departmental inquiry into allegations that students were made to offer Islamic prayers and wear uniforms identifying them as belonging to a “special community” during his tenure as in charge headmaster.Justice Manju Rani Chauhan, while disposing of a petition filed by Mohd Anzar Ahmad, directed authorities to conclude the departmental inquiry at the earliest, preferably within 15 days.Ahmad had challenged the suspension order issued on May 10, 2026, by the district basic education officer, Sambhal.According to the allegations, students were offering Islamic prayers and wearing uniforms indicating affiliation with a “special community” during the period when Ahmad was serving as the in charge headmaster.However, the petitioner argued that he was on medical leave during the said period and that the alleged activities did not occur during his tenure. He further contended that, even if he were considered responsible as the in charge headmaster, the suspension was too harsh and contrary to departmental rules.Opposing the plea, the state’s counsel submitted that official records showed Ahmad was present during the prayer service in question.The court declined to examine the merits of the allegations at this stage, observing that the teacher’s explanation and supporting documents could be considered during the departmental proceedings.“During the departmental enquiry, the petitioner shall have ample opportunity to prove his innocence,” the court said in its Sept 7 order.
