Headmaster accused of molesting girl

Some of them attempted to thrash the headmaster, D Gangadharappa (59). However, the Kamakshipalya police rushed to the spot, rescued him and pacified the angry parents. The Ravinandan Education Society (RES), which owns the school, has suspended him pending inquiry.

According to sources, Gangadharappa of Davangere, had reportedly punished a third standard student on Friday evening. The protesters claimed that he had sexually harassed the girl and demanded stern action. The Kamakshipalya police said they have registered a case based on a complaint by the girl’s mother, Geetha.

President of the Education Society Shivanna refuted the charges. “Gangadharappa has been with our school since 1998 and has maintained high moral values. I suspect it is a conspiracy to tarnish the image of our school and to prevent more admissions this year. How can a 59-year-old person, due for retirement in just three months, sexually abuse a nine-year-old girl?” he said.

Shivanna told Deccan Herald that none of the parents had met the management and complained regarding the issue.

“We don’t even know who staged the protest,” he said. Several parents speaking to Deccan Herald, echoed similar views.