Malkangiri: The Principal of Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya (OAV) in Khairput block of Malkangiri district has been suspended for allegedly failing to operationalise the school hostel despite repeated directions from the district administration aimed at promoting girls’ education and reducing dropout rates.
The issue came to light after the District Collector, during a monthly review meeting of the Education Department, instructed the Principal to make the hostel functional without delay so that girl students could benefit from residential facilities.
However, the directive remained unimplemented for nearly two months. The continued delay was attributed to the alleged non-compliance and negligence of Principal Rajeev Kumar Dutta.
Following the intervention of the District Collector, the matter was referred to the School & Mass Education Department. In a letter dated July 18, 2026, the District Education authorities sought action against the Principal.
Acting on the recommendation, the Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya Sangathan issued an order on July 31, 2026, placing Dutta under suspension. The order cited negligence in the discharge of official duties and lack of cooperation in implementing administrative directions.
The suspended Principal has also been directed to report to the office of the District Education Officer, Malkangiri, until further orders. The administration expects that the move will help expedite the functioning of the hostel, which is considered crucial for improving access to education for girls in the remote tribal region.
