Bhubaneswar, Oct 13: A school headmaster has been arrested in Mayurbhanj district for allegedly sexually harassing a minor girl student, police said. The incident has raised concerns over student safety and the responsibility of school authorities to protect children.

According to reports, the accused, identified as Srikrushna Patra, allegedly called a Class VI student to his office on September 25 on the pretext of closing the doors and windows. He allegedly misbehaved with the girl inside the office.

Following the incident, the student reportedly informed two matrons at the hostel. However, they have been accused of attempting to suppress the matter.

The incident came to light after the girl contacted her family members over the phone on Monday and disclosed what had allegedly happened. Subsequently, her family approached Raruan Police Station and lodged a written complaint against the headmaster.

Acting on the complaint, police arrested Patra from Baripada. Further investigation into the allegations is underway.

The case comes shortly after a similar incident was reported at a school in Bangiriposi block, bringing renewed attention to concerns about the safety of students in educational institutions.

The allegations against the headmaster and the reported conduct of the hostel matrons are expected to be examined as part of the investigation. Authorities are yet to share further details about the case.

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