Teacher suspended on sexual harassment charge, FIR lodged

Excelsior Correspondent

RAJOURI, Oct 1: Chief Education Officer Rajouri, Mohammad Hafiz ordered the immediate suspension of a Government school teacher after serious allegations of sexual harassment and mis-conduct with a girl student surfaced at Higher Secondary School Kakora in Manjakote area of Rajouri district.
The incident triggered outrage among students, who took to the road in protest, demanding strict action against the accused. The Principal of HSS Kakora had formally reported allegations of misconduct against Ajaz Ahmed, a teacher posted at the institution.
Taking swift cognizance, CEO Rajouri issued an order stating that the allegations were grave in nature and required urgent administrative intervention to safeguard students and ensure a fair, impartial inquiry.
Accordingly, Ajaz Ahmed has been placed under suspension with immediate effect under Rule 31 of the J&K Civil Services (Classification, Control & Appeal) Rules, 1956, read with the J&K Government Employees (Conduct) Rules, 1971. During the suspension, he has been attached to the office of the Zonal Education Officer, Khawas.
Tehsildar Manjakote, Jazia Kazmi, rushed to the spot and pacified the protesting students, assuring them of stringent action as per law.
When contacted CEO Rajouri Mohammad Hafiz said, “The issue is being taken very seriously. A high-level committee will be constituted to conduct a thorough inquiry, and strict action will follow based on its findings.”
Meanwhile, Station House Officer (SHO) Manjakote, Imran Khan, confirmed that Police have registered FIR No. 83/2025 at Police Station Manjakote under Section 74 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) – Assault or Use of Criminal Force to a Woman with Intent to Outrage Her Modesty – and Sections 7/8 of the POCSO Act. A manhunt has been launched to trace the absconding teacher.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to uphold the dignity and safety of students, stressing that such incidents will be dealt with firmly and no one found guilty will be spared.