Mid-Day Meal Stalled at Bagdar Kanyara Yadav Chandra High School Amid Absence of Principal and Unpaid Dues

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, April 14, 2025, Kolkata: The mid-day meal scheme at Bagdar Kanyara Yadav Chandra High School in North 24 Parganas has remained suspended since February, raising concerns among parents, students, and the local community. The issue appears rooted in prolonged administrative negligence, with the school's principal reportedly absent for nearly one and a half years while continuing to draw a salary.

In the principal's absence, the acting headmaster has taken on the responsibility of managing day-to-day operations at the school. However, the inability to access or disburse funds allocated for the mid-day meal has led to growing financial liabilities. According to local sources, approximately ₹58,000 is owed to suppliers of essential commodities such as groceries, raw food materials, and fuel. Local vendors, citing the outstanding dues, have refused further supply, resulting in the complete suspension of the mid-day meal.

The acting headmaster has submitted formal communications to the Block Development Officer (BDO) and Sub-Inspector (SI) of schools, requesting relief or guidance in managing the scheme under the current circumstances. He stated that a meeting had been convened by the BDO to address the matter and find a solution; however, the principal failed to attend the session, further delaying potential resolution.

BDO Prasun Pramanik confirmed the headmaster’s prolonged absence and acknowledged the challenges this has created in continuing the mid-day meal program. He emphasized that while discussions have been initiated to address the issue, the lack of cooperation from the school’s leadership has stalled progress.

The situation has sparked frustration among fellow educators and guardians, who express concern over the impact on students' well-being. With mounting pressure from the community, stakeholders await decisive intervention to ensure the timely restoration of the vital nutrition program.