Major Lapse in Chhattisgarh Government School Question Paper, Exam Cancelled
Mahasamund | A major controversy has erupted in Chhattisgarh’s Mahasamund district after a highly objectionable question appeared in the Class IV half-yearly examination conducted in government schools. The English question paper allegedly included the revered name of Lord Ram as an option for a dog’s name, triggering widespread outrage and protests.
What Is the Entire Matter?
According to the Directorate of Public Instruction, a question in the Class IV English examination asked:
“What is the name of Mona’s dog?”
The multiple-choice options included a common pet name, “Sheru”, along with “Ram”. The inclusion of Lord Ram’s name—revered by millions of Hindus—as an animal’s name option was viewed as deeply offensive and an insult to religious sentiments.
Questions Raised Over Question Paper, Department Takes Strict Action
As soon as the issue came to light, the Education Department swung into action and immediately cancelled the controversial question paper. The Directorate termed the incident condemnable, insensitive, and hurtful to religious beliefs.
Serious Negligence Alleged Against DEO
The department clarified that the responsibility for the preparation, review, and printing of the Class IV question paper rested entirely with the District Education Officer (DEO). Such a grave error, officials said, amounts to serious administrative negligence.
According to the Directorate, the lapse has not only tarnished the image of the government and the education department but also violated the conduct expected from a responsible government officer.
Violation of Conduct Rules Cited
In the show-cause notice issued to the DEO, the act has been described as a violation of Rule 3 of the Chhattisgarh Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1965. The department stated that the incident goes against established standards of official conduct and decorum.
Strong Protest by Hindu Organisations
As the controversy intensified, Hindu organisations staged a protest and gheraoed District Education Officer Vijay Kumar Lahre in Patewa. Memorandums were submitted to the Collector and Superintendent of Police, demanding strict action against those responsible.
Meanwhile, Hindu leader Vijay Mahato submitted an application at the Kotwali police station, demanding the registration of a case against the DEO and other concerned officials for hurting religious sentiments.
DEO’s Clarification
Following the escalation of the issue, the District Education Officer stated that the question paper was printed due to an unintentional error and has since been cancelled. However, the explanation has failed to pacify protesting organisations, and public anger continues to mount.
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