Sitamarhi: A headmaster in Bihar has been suspended after a video showing him smoking cannabis with two unidentified men inside a school building went viral on social media, prompting swift disciplinary action by the education department.
The footage, reportedly recorded at KDKN High School in Kharka, Bokhara (Sitamarhi district), shows headteacher Sujit Kumar Tiwari engaging in drug use within the school premises. The video was widely circulated on WhatsApp, leading to public outrage and immediate intervention from education authorities.
According to officials, Tiwari not only violated the state’s Teacher Service Rules of 2023 and 2024 by consuming illegal substances, but also by allowing unauthorised individuals into the school. The District Education Officer (DEO) took urgent notice of the matter, initiating a departmental inquiry and issuing a suspension order.
During the period of his suspension, Tiwari has been assigned to report daily to the Block Education Officer’s office in Dumra. He will receive only a subsistence allowance, and that too conditional on regular attendance. A formal show cause notice has also been issued as part of the disciplinary proceedings.
The incident has triggered widespread criticism, with many highlighting the moral implications of such behaviour by an educator. “Teachers are meant to be role models. When their conduct deteriorates, it not only affects students but also erodes the credibility of the education system,” a senior education official commented.
Locals and parents have expressed concern over the incident, demanding stronger oversight mechanisms in schools. Suggestions include installing CCTV cameras, conducting regular inspections, and enforcing teacher accountability.
While the education department’s rapid response has been welcomed, many argue that systemic reforms are necessary to prevent similar incidents in the future.
