Patna: The Bihar Education Department has suspended Marjina Khatun, the Block Education Officer of Madhepur in Bihar, following allegations of accepting illegal payments for countersigning School Leaving Certificates (TCs). The action was taken with immediate effect after a field inquiry substantiated complaints from students and parents.
The suspension order was issued under the signature of Manaranjan Kumar, Director (Administration) of the Education Department, based on a report submitted by the District Education Officer of Madhubani. The officer belongs to the Administrative Sub-cadre of the Bihar Education Service.
Viral Video Triggers Inquiry
Officials initiated an investigation after a video surfaced online allegedly showing the Block Education Officer accepting money in exchange for countersigning transfer certificates. The incident prompted the department to order a field-level inquiry.
During the investigation, officials recorded statements of students and parents who raised complaints regarding irregular payments.
The inquiry team also found that administrative work was being conducted from the officer’s private residence instead of the designated government office, according to departmental sources.
Findings of the Investigation
The District Education Officer’s report confirmed allegations of money being collected from students and guardians for processing School Leaving Certificates. The report also cited violations of service conduct norms under the Bihar Government Servants’ Conduct Rules.
Officials stated that the conduct was found inconsistent with the expected standards of public service and warranted immediate disciplinary action.
Suspension Order and Posting
The department suspended Marjina Khatun under Rule 9(1) of the Bihar Government Servants (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 2005.
During the suspension period, her headquarters has been fixed at the office of the Regional Deputy Director of Education in Darbhanga. Officials indicated that further departmental proceedings may follow based on the outcome of the inquiry.
