Bombay HC grants bail to staff of Pune school

Mumbai: The Bombay high court has granted anticipatory bail to the director, principal and a teacher of Pune's CP Goenka International School in a case wherein a student's mother complained to the court that the school had allegedly falsely promised her that her child would be given special attention due to his mental status but failed to do so.

The prosecution argued that the three accused’s custodial interrogation is required, but the court turned down the submission. The court directed the accused to remain present before the investigation officers of Pune's Yerwada police, which is probing the complaint.

According to complainant, Arati Sodawa-terwala, she had informed the school authorities about son’s need for special attention. One of the accused, Megha Dodega, had  requested her to admit both her children to the school and suggested that they be sent for a summer camp in April 2017. During the camp, two teachers had called Ms Sodawaterwala and informed about her child using filthy language.  

On March 19, the mother submitted a complaint to Pune’s police commissioner, which was later turned into a FIR. The police booked Sandeep Goenka, Ms Dodega and Ms Tiwari under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, Juvenile Justice Act and Right to Education Act.

The accused’s lawyer argued that none of the sections are applicable to his clients and they are entitled for the bail.

The court said, “Considering the status of all applicants having roots in society and having least chances of their fleeing from justice, the application is liable to be allowed by imposing suitable conditions.”