Parents and school staff have raised the issue with the education department officials but little or no action has been taken against her.
New Delhi: The moment I glanced at this story, my mind went to the Latin phrase “In absentia” that means “in his absence” or “without being present”. In this case it is “in her absence”.
This emanates from two places, Banaskantha in Gujarat and Chicago in the American state of Illinois.
The subject here is a head teacher, identified as Bhavnaben Patel who is “teaching” at a government primary school in Gujarat’s Banaskantha and at the same time living in Chicago, USA for the past 11 years. In fact, she is still reportedly drawing a government salary.
The allegations were levelled against Bhavnaben Patel by officials and parents in a complaint, reported India Today.
According to school officials, Bhavnaben Patel is the head of Pancha Primary School in Ambaji, holds a US green card and has been a permanent resident of Chicago since 2013, as reported. Despite her not being on the rolls and her absence for 11 long years, Patel’s name remains on the school’s roster.
She visits Gujarat once a year during Diwali, when the school is closed for the holidays. During these brief visits, she reportedly does not attend school or interact with students.
Parents and school staff have reportedly raised the issue with the education department officials but little or no action has been taken against her.
Parulben, the school’s in-charge teacher, alleged that Patel relocated to the USA in 2013. She said she informed education department officials about Patel’s prolonged absence when it came to her notice. Students also stated they have not seen Patel in at least two years.
Meanwhile, putting ahead their stance, the primary education officer confirmed that Patel last visited the school in January 2023 and has been on an unpaid leave since the start of this year.
Officials have issued a show-cause notice to Patel and are seeking disciplinary action.
