School field in clutches of headteacher’s brother

A blatant example of misuse of power has been witnessed at a school in Patuakhali's Bauphal upazila, and this corruption is robbing students of their playing field.

The headteacher's brother has occupied the field of Kumbkhali-Kathikul Government Primary School to run his contracting business and supply construction materials.

Students and their guardians have repeatedly expressed their anger over the matter but to no avail. A few students of the school, not willing to be named, said they cannot play any sports on the field anymore.

Guardians and locals said this has been the state of affairs at the school for nearly two years.

The contractor, Asim Kumar Pal, is the brother of headteacher Arun Kumar Pal.

Several parents talked about the injustice playing out in front of their eyes, but wished to remain anonymous as the perpetrator was the headmaster's brother, and they feared that protesting publicly could have an adverse impact on their children.

Asim has also been making pillars on the school field in addition to operating his business on the premises.

Headteacher Arun said, "I have instructed my brother to remove all the goods from the field."

Asim has also confirmed that he would clear the field.

Bauphal Upazila Education Officer Atiqul Islam said there is no opportunity for running any business by occupying a school field. Immediate action will be taken in this regard.