Team Goemkarponn
Valpoi: Mounting frustration among parents at Surla Government Secondary School in Sattari has reached a boiling point, as the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) has demanded the immediate transfer of Headmaster Devidas Kotkar, alleging continued absenteeism, administrative paralysis, and significant academic setbacks for students.
The parents claim Kotkar has not been regularly attending school for nearly two years, resulting in stalled operations and a noticeable dip in academic performance—especially among Class 10 students. Despite multiple representations to the Education Department and an assurance from local MLA Dr. Deviya Rane, no action has been taken so far. The lack of intervention has triggered growing anger among local residents, who now threaten to launch an agitation if a new, competent headmaster is not appointed within the next 15 days.
“The school is functioning without leadership. Students are suffering, facilities are underutilised, and the future of this institution is at stake,” said Santosh Gaonkar, a prominent local parent. He warned that if the situation persists, enrollment could drop, and the school—once a vital educational hub for students from Surla and neighbouring Karnataka areas—could face closure.
This is not the first time Kotkar has faced such allegations. Just this week, the PTA of Nagargaon Government Secondary School submitted a fresh complaint against him to the Director of Education, demanding not only his transfer but also disciplinary action, including possible dismissal from service. Kotkar previously served at the Nagargaon school before his current posting in Surla.
The parents and panchayat members of Surla have now issued a clear ultimatum to the authorities: act within 15 days or face a sustained protest involving both parents and students. They plan to submit a formal memorandum to the Education Director, warning of a district-level agitation if their demands are ignored.
The government has invested heavily in infrastructure for the school, and with student numbers reportedly stable, parents believe that a leadership change is essential to protect and enhance the institution’s future. As public pressure mounts, all eyes are now on the Education Department’s next move—and whether it will heed the growing call for accountability.
