Odisha: Warden Accused of Misconduct at School for Disabled Children

The accused, identified as Sandhya Darshan Mahapatra, allegedly harassed female students through inappropriate physical contact. Male students have claimed that attempts to report such incidents were met with severe physical and psychological punishment.

District authorities have constituted a committee, headed by the Additional District Magistrate (General), to investigate the matter. According to reports, video footage shows distressed students using gestures to convey their experiences. One clip reportedly depicts the warden making unwanted physical contact with a girl, despite her visible discomfort. Another image shows him touching a student’s arm in a secluded corner of the school.

Confirming receipt of complaints, Kalahandi District Child Protection Officer Shailendu Mahapatra said: “We have received complaints against some employees regarding the harassment and sexual exploitation of children.” He added that a preliminary inquiry had been completed and a detailed report would be submitted to the District Collector for further action.