Karnataka school headmaster suspended for ferrying 70 students in goods vehicles during field trip

MANGALURU: The headmaster (in-charge) of a government higher primary school in Balenja village of Belthangady taluk was placed under suspension on Thursday, for allegedly making nearly 70 students travel in two goods vehicles during a recent field study visit.

Tarakesari, block education officer (BEO), Belthangady, said that Kiran Kumar KS of the Government Upgraded Higher Primary School, Balenja, was suspended by the Dakshina Kannada deputy director of public instruction (DDPI).


The incident, which occurred on Feb 9, triggered sharp criticism for violating student safety norms and transport guidelines. According to the BEO, the trip was organised as part of Eco Club activities to a beekeeping farm located near the school.

Instead of arranging proper transport facilities, the headmaster allegedly used a tipper truck and a pickup vehicle to ferry the children to the site and back. Videos showing students being transported in unsafe conditions circulated widely on social media, prompting swift action by the education department.

The BEO's office also received an oral complaint from parents. Following the complaint and the viral footage, a team of officials, including the BEO, sought an explanation from the headmaster, and held discussions with parents to ascertain the details of the incident.

DDPI GS Shashidhar said the suspension order was issued based on the video evidence and information available to the department. He stated that schools must use passenger vehicles with valid documentation and ensure required safety compliance when transporting children. The suspension order was issued under the Karnataka Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 2021, and the Karnataka State Child Protection Policy. "Parents send their children to school trusting teachers, and we should not break that trust," Shashidhar said, adding that the episode serves as a reminder that student safety cannot be compromised under any circumstances. The school caters to students from classes I to VIII.

Meanwhile, based on a complaint filed by Dharanendra of Balanja village in Belthangady taluk, a case has been registered at the Venoor Police Station under Section 281 of the BNS and Sections 66 and 192(A) of the IMV Act. Further verification will be conducted regarding the school authorities who arranged the transportation of the students, and appropriate legal action will be initiated.