Doda CEO sets up 3-member panel to probe GMS Sichal students chanting violent phrases in prayer video. Teacher’s salary withheld.
The Chief Education Officer of Doda has formed a three-member enquiry committee to investigate a viral video showing students of Government Middle School Sichal reciting a prayer with phrases such as “khoon se tilak karo, goliyon se aarti,” while withholding the salary of teacher Chander Kumar until the probe concludes, as per information compiled by Tahir Rihat.
On November 6, 2025, the CEO issued order No. CEO/D/MC/2025/249 in response to a formal complaint by social activist Raja Shakeel. The committee, tasked with submitting a factual report within two days, consists of principals Ms. Shafiqa Banoo from HSS Chilli, Mr. Gulshan Kumar from HSS Jakyas, and Mr. Akhter Ali from HSS Chanti. The order emphasizes maintaining school decorum and protecting student welfare in the Halaran zone of Bhatyass.
Raja Shakeel shared the video on his Facebook page and alleged that students were being exposed to extremist and violent teachings unsuitable for minors. In his letter to the CEO, he demanded an urgent departmental inquiry, immediate suspension of the involved teacher(s), registration of an FIR under sections related to promoting communal hatred and endangering children, and a public commitment from the education department to uphold secular principles.
The salary of Mr. Chander Kumar, a teacher at GMS Sichal, has been stopped with immediate effect pending the enquiry outcome. Copies of the order have been forwarded to the District Development Commissioner, Director of School Education Jammu, and the principals involved for necessary follow-up.
The recited lines, “apply tilak with blood” and “perform aarti with bullets,” originate from a 2017 nationalist song that has gained traction in certain political circles. Education officials in Doda declined to comment, stating the matter is under active investigation.
The incident has raised alarms among parents and civil society in the Chenab Valley regarding the content of extracurricular activities in government schools, particularly in remote and sensitive areas. This marks the second such case in Doda this year involving questionable material introduced to students.
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The enquiry committee began taking statements on the evening of November 6. Recommendations for further action, including possible FIR or disciplinary measures, will follow the submission of the report. Stay updated on Jammu Kashmir education news and regional issues at www.tahirrihat.com.