Karnataka Upalokayukta orders probe into substandard shoes for schoolchildren
The Upalokayukta has ordered a preliminary probe into allegations that inferior-quality shoes supplied to government schoolchildren tore within days of use.
Karnataka Upalokayukta Justice K.N. Phanindra has ordered a suo motu complaint and a preliminary investigation into allegations that poor-quality footwear supplied to government schoolchildren this year was damaged within days, with some pairs reportedly tearing within minutes of being worn.
The order follows media reports from across the State claiming that the shoes given to government school students were of inferior quality compared with those distributed last year. The reports also alleged corruption in the procurement and supply of the footwear.
Justice Phanindra observed that the matter concerns the provision of basic amenities to schoolchildren and prima facie raises questions about the right to education under Article 21A of the Constitution and compliance with Supreme Court judgments.
Suo motu complaints have accordingly been registered against Deputy Directors of the School Education Department and the Block Education Officers concerned in 15 districts within the Upalokayukta's jurisdiction.
The Superintendents of Police of the Karnataka Lokayukta in those districts have been directed to examine the relevant records and conduct a preliminary investigation. They have been asked to collect and scrutinise the documents and submit a preliminary report with supporting records within two weeks.
Justice Phanindra further directed that copies of the order be sent to the District In-charge Ministers concerned and to the Karnataka Minister for Primary and Secondary Education for action.