Assam HSLC debacle: Locals protest as just 5 of 36 students pass

In a startling incident at a government higher secondary school in Dalgon, Assam, only 5 out of 36 students who appeared for the High School Leaving Certificate (HSLC) exam this year passed, sparking intense public outrage.

The school in question, Konaktapara Higher Secondary School, located under the Dalgaon-Sialmari education block in Darrang district, has become a focal point of protest, with over a hundred concerned locals gathering at the school gate to voice their anger.

Despite having 19 teachers on staff, the dismal results have raised questions about academic discipline and teaching quality. 

Protesters accused Headmaster Asadullah Faruqi and School Management Committee (SMC) President Abdul Salam of gross negligence. They alleged that under their leadership, the school, once known for its academic excellence and even for producing A-grade students, has now fallen into disarray.

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According to local allegations, students are often seen distracted by mobile phones and video games, with reports of teachers even providing Wi-Fi access to students during school hours. There are also complaints of frequent music and entertainment activities disrupting the learning environment.

Demonstrators demanded that both the headmaster and the SMC president accept moral responsibility and resign immediately. They also appealed to the Chief Minister and Education Minister of Assam to intervene and restore order and quality in the school.

Meanwhile, school authorities expressed regret over the poor results in front of the media and acknowledged the need for introspection and improvement.

The incident has sent shockwaves across the region, highlighting the urgent need for educational reforms and accountability in rural Assam’s government schools.