A high-profile dispute in Sitapur involving teacher Avantika Gupta, BSA Akhilesh Pratap Singh, and school principal Brijendra Verma has led to suspension, protests, and political reactions. Full story, facts, and developments.
Sitapur is witnessing a major controversy in its education sector, centering around teacher Avantika Gupta. The incident has escalated into a high-profile dispute involving the Basic Education Officer (BSA) Akhilesh Pratap Singh and the principal of Nadwa Primary School, Brijendra Verma. Following administrative instructions, teacher Avantika Gupta has been suspended, triggering protests, political commentary, and widespread public interest.
Suspension and Official Proceedings
Avantika Gupta was instructed to respond to queries regarding her absence from the school between August 21, 2025, and September 20, 2025. She was scheduled to appear at the BSA office on September 23, 2025. Failure to attend the hearing resulted in her suspension.
Her salary has also been withheld during this period. This disciplinary action has drawn significant attention, highlighting ongoing concerns about teacher attendance and accountability in the region.
Root of the Controversy
The dispute began over Avantika Gupta’s attendance. Allegations arose from Brijendra Verma’s wife, Seema Verma, claiming that BSA Akhilesh Pratap Singh pressured her husband to mark attendance for Gupta despite her irregular presence at school.
Students reportedly confirmed via CCTV that the teacher arrived late and left early. Former minister Narendra Singh Verma also stated that the teacher had been absent for a prolonged period and that pressure was applied to record her attendance accurately.
The conflict escalated when Principal Brijendra Verma requested a certificate of attendance for Avantika Gupta covering the period from August 21 to September 20. Gupta subsequently lodged a complaint with the BSA, triggering a series of administrative proceedings.
BSA Office Incident
The situation turned violent on September 23, 2025, when Principal Brijendra Verma allegedly struck BSA Akhilesh Pratap Singh with a belt at the BSA office. CCTV footage of the incident went viral, prompting immediate action by the Basic Education Department.
Brijendra Verma was suspended, an FIR was registered against him, and he was sent to jail the following day. The department has also ordered an inquiry led by the Divisional Assistant Education Director (Basic) to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Protests and Public Reaction
The suspension of the principal triggered protests outside Nadwa School, led by students and parents demanding Brijendra Verma’s reinstatement. Classes were disrupted as the community expressed its outrage over the administrative decision.
BJP legislator Asha Maurya visited the school to encourage students to resume classes, condemning the violence while emphasizing the importance of handling complaints through proper channels.
Sitapur MP Rakesh Rathore described the incident as unfortunate, urging all parties to understand the root causes of the conflict. He also alleged political interference by the BSA and called for appropriate action regarding the teacher’s complaints.
The BTC Teacher Welfare Association wrote to the Chief Minister demanding a high-level investigation to uncover the reasons behind the violent act and the administrative lapses that led to the escalation.
Implications and Next Steps
The Sitapur school controversy has highlighted broader issues within the education system, including teacher accountability, administrative pressure, and handling of grievances. The ongoing investigation is expected to clarify the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved.
Meanwhile, the local community and political leaders continue to debate the incident’s implications, making this case a significant talking point in regional education and governance discussions.