In the wake of complaints that candidates contesting elections to Legislative Council from the South Teachers’ Constituency and their supporters were meeting teachers during class hours in schools, Deputy Director of Public Instruction S. Mamata has instructed them not to disturb the teachers during class hours.
She said that meeting and disturbing teachers during class hours was in violation of the election code of conduct and cautioned them that she would report the matter to the Election Officer if they were found canvassing or meeting teachers during class hours in any school.
Ms. Mamatha told The Hindu on Tuesday that candidates and their supporters could meet teachers during lunch breaks or after school hours. She said that she had received complaints but these were not specific. Hence, she was unable to initiate action.
Police complaints
The DDPI said that she had directed the heads of institutions not to allow candidates to meet the teachers during class hours.
She also asked the heads to file police complaints if any candidate or their supporters forcibly entered schools.
Ms. Mamatha asked teachers should not leave classes to canvass for any candidate.
She warned that strict disciplinary action would be taken against teachers who were campaigning during class hours.
Legal action
Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Abhiram Sankar told The Hindu he would ask flying squads to intensify visits to schools in this regard. He said that P. Hemalatha, Mysuru Regional Commissioner who is also election officer, had issued a circular of dos and donts to all candidates. Those who violate instructions would face legal action.