Punjab: Family pulls daughters out of Nabha schools over principal assault allegation
Babushahi Bureau
Nabha (Punjab), August 9, 2026: A controversy has emerged at a CBSE-affiliated private school in Nabha after the family of a Class 9 student alleged that the school principal slapped their daughter during a classroom discussion on justice for the victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. Following the incident, the family has withdrawn both of their daughters from the school.
According to the student’s father, the incident occurred during a lesson on “Democracy” when his daughter shared her views regarding the lack of justice for the victims of the 1984 riots. He alleged that the teacher objected to her remarks and called the principal to the classroom.
The family further claimed that the student’s comments were linked to Khalistan, and that she was allegedly told to go to Pakistan. They alleged that the principal then slapped the girl twice, causing a nose injury.
The family also accused the school of refusing to provide CCTV footage of the incident and alleged that Punjabi-speaking students are often insulted. Citing emotional distress and continued pressure, the family decided to remove both daughters from the institution.
Following the incident, the student, her family members and representatives of a farmers’ union held a meeting with the school management. Farmer leader Gamdur Singh stated that the management had assured them that a decision regarding the principal’s position would be taken within 10 days. He warned that the union would consider further action if no steps were taken.
The school management, however, has strongly denied the allegations. School Chairman Mr. Aulakh rejected claims that the student was physically assaulted or suffered a nose injury, describing the allegations as an attempt to defame the institution.
He stated that the principal had only verbally reprimanded the student for what he termed inappropriate behaviour and emphasized that the school’s focus is on education rather than political discussions. The chairman also denied allegations that Punjabi-speaking students face discrimination within the school.
Addressing questions about the CCTV footage, he said that the footage could not be retrieved due to a technical fault in the hard disk. He further informed that the principal has been on leave since July 21 and visits the school only when necessary for official work.
The matter has sparked debate locally, with both sides standing by their respective versions of events.