Teacher suspended for refusing to sing national anthem and ‘Vande Mataram’ in Aligarh school

Aligarh : A government primary school in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, has sparked a major controversy after a teacher allegedly refused to sing the national anthem and ‘Vande Mataram’ during the morning assembly. The incident took place at Shahpur Khutub Government Senior Primary School, where Assistant Teacher Sanshul Hasan reportedly disrespected the national symbols during prayer time.

According to reports, all teachers and students had gathered for the usual morning assembly, during which the national anthem and patriotic songs are sung. However, Hasan not only refused to participate but also allegedly disrespected both the national anthem and the patriotic song ‘Vande Mataram.’ His actions caused an uproar among staff and locals, leading to immediate administrative intervention.

Immediate suspension ordered
The incident came to the attention of Basic Shiksha Adhikari (BSA) Rakesh Kumar Singh, who conducted a preliminary inquiry. The inquiry confirmed that the teacher had indeed shown disrespect toward the national anthem. Following this, the BSA suspended Hasan with immediate effect.

“Teachers are expected to be role models for their students. Disrespecting the national anthem or any national symbol cannot be tolerated. Such behavior violates professional ethics and undermines the values we seek to instill in children,” said BSA Singh in his statement.

He further added that this kind of act creates confusion among students and fear among parents. “Showing disrespect to the nation, its flag, or its anthem is not a trivial matter. It weakens the dignity of the teaching profession and cannot be set as an example,” he said.

National anthem, ‘Vande Mataram’ made mandatory in UP schools
The Uttar Pradesh Education Department has made it mandatory for all government and private schools to begin the day with the national anthem and ‘Vande Mataram.’ An official circular had earlier directed schools to ensure strict compliance, emphasizing that morning assemblies must begin with these songs as a mark of national respect and unity.

Authorities have clarified that strict disciplinary action will be taken against anyone who defies this directive, as such behavior not only violates educational norms but also disrespects the nation.

The suspension of the teacher has sparked mixed reactions in the region — with education officials backing the decision as a necessary disciplinary step, while some local groups have called for further investigation into the incident.

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