In a controversial development, Sindhusuta Nayak, a teacher at Majhigadia Upgraded High School in Kaptipada block, Mayurbhanj district, is facing allegations of securing her job using a fake certificate. The incident has triggered a probe by the District Education Officer (DEO) to verify the authenticity of her credentials.
Allegations and Suspicions
According to an RTI (Right to Information) request, Sindhusuta reportedly earned her Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in 2009 and her Bachelor of Education (BEd) in 2013. However, between 2008 and 2012, she allegedly worked as a staff nurse at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, drawing a full salary. This raises concerns about how she pursued full-time education while being employed full-time in a government job.
The conflicting timelines have sparked questions about possible manipulation of records and a lack of oversight in verifying credentials for government recruitment.
Teacher and School’s Response
When approached by the media, both Sindhusuta and the school’s head teacher, Sirish Chandra Kar, declined to comment on camera. They expressed dissatisfaction with being questioned.
Sindhusuta defended her position, stating:
“All my documents are in the DEO office for verification purposes. The DEO is also well aware of it. All the documents have also been verified.”
The school principal refrained from making any statements regarding the issue.
DEO’s Assurance of Investigation
District Education Officer (DEO) Purnachandra Sethy confirmed that a detailed investigation is underway. He emphasized that if Sindhusuta was working on a contractual basis while pursuing her education, it may not pose an issue. However, any discrepancies or violations found will result in further action.
“We will ensure appropriate measures are taken based on the findings,” the DEO assured.
Implications and Public Reaction
The incident has stirred public debate over the integrity of recruitment processes in government schools. Residents of Mayurbhanj expressed concerns about the potential misuse of government resources and called for stringent checks to prevent such occurrences in the future.
As the probe continues, all eyes remain on the DEO’s findings, which will determine the next course of action.