The Allahabad High Court has directed the authorities to conclude a departmental enquiry against a teacher who was suspended over allegations concerning students performing Islamic prayers and wearing uniforms indicating a particular community.
Justice Manju Rani Chauhan, however, declined to examine the disputed allegations at the writ petition stage and kept the suspension order in abeyance until the enquiry is completed.
Background of the Case
Mohd. Anzar Ahmed challenged the suspension order dated May 10, 2026, passed by the District Basic Education Officer, Sambhal. The allegations related to activities said to have occurred while he was serving as In-charge Headmaster.
Ahmed argued that he was on sanctioned medical leave during the relevant period and was not present when the alleged activities took place. The respondents, however, relied on records which, according to their counsel, showed the petitioner at the prayer services before November 14, 2025.
A charge-sheet was also served on him on September 7, 2026.
Court’s Observation
The Court said the disputed allegations could not be examined at this stage because the petitioner’s explanation and supporting documents could properly be raised as his defence in the departmental enquiry.
"The charges levelled against the petitioner cannot be examined at this stage, inasmuch as the explanation and the documents relied upon by the petitioner can be raised as a defence in the departmental enquiry. During the departmental enquiry, the petitioner shall have ample opportunity to prove his innocence."
Decision
The High Court disposed of the writ petition and directed that the enquiry be completed strictly according to law at the earliest, preferably within 15 days.
The suspension order will remain in abeyance until the enquiry concludes and will abide by its final outcome.
The relevant documents must also be supplied to the petitioner within three days.
Case Details
- Case Title: Mohd. Anzar Ahmed v. Principal Secretary Basic Education And 4 Others
- Case Number: Writ-A No. 12781 of 2026
- Judge: Justice Manju Rani Chauhan
- Decision Date: September 7, 2026
