Official report blames school in TVM for inviting POCSO accused as guest

Thiruvananthapuram: The Sub-District Education Officer’s report has concluded that there was a clear lapse on the part of the school in the controversial incident involving Mukesh M Nair, an accused in a POCSO case, who took part in a school’s Praveshanolsavam. The report held the Headmaster accountable, stating he cannot evade responsibility for the incident.

Mukesh, a vlogger who also faces charges in an Excise case, was present as the chief guest at the Praveshanolsavam ceremony at Fort High School in Thiruvananthapuram. His participation sparked widespread criticism, particularly given the nature of the charges against him. The state’s Education Minister ordered an immediate investigation, instructing the Thiruvananthapuram Deputy Director of Education to file a detailed report.

In a statement submitted to the Sub-District Education Officer, the Headmaster claimed the school had officially invited only the local ward councillor, Janaki Ammal, to the event. A voluntary organisation, JCI-- which has been distributing educational materials and scholarships at the school for several years had also been involved in the programme.

According to the Headmaster, JCI had not informed the school that Mukesh would be attending. “They only said a celebrity would be a guest. Mukesh arrived unexpectedly during the event and could not be identified at the time. The promotional notice prepared by JCI was not shown to the school,” the explanation stated. It further noted that Mukesh distributed educational supplies to a few students at JCI’s suggestion.

Despite the Headmaster’s account, the Sub-District Officer’s report concluded that the school had failed in its duty to properly vet guests and ensure appropriate participation in the event. Based on these findings, the Director of General Education has directed the Deputy Director to recommend appropriate action.