Mumbai: Somaiya Trust tells school head to explain in writing on controversy over social media posts

Parveen Shaikh

Somaiya Trust Management has issued a statement saying they have sought a written explanation from Principal Parveen Shaikh about the controversy surrounding her social media activity and other matters of concern. The development comes three days after Shaikh claimed that the school management had asked her to resign from the position of Principal from The Somaiya School in Vidyavihar.

Shaikh was reportedly asked to resign last week following an article published on a website which highlighted her pro-Hamas, anti-Hindu, and anti-Modi regime views on social media. The management, however, stated that the investigation into the matter was still ongoing. On Saturday, the management issued a short statement that read: "We have sought a written explanation from Ms Parveen Shaikh and await her response."

A spokesperson from the management told mid-day: "Indeed, the primary concern revolves around the allegations featured on the news website. We've sought explanation on several other matters as well. However, we prefer to maintain confidentiality and refrain from discussing these issues in order to uphold the dignity and integrity of both the employee and the organisation's relationship."

When contacted, Shaikh confirmed receipt of the letter from the management on Thursday evening. She said: "It is not a simple explanation that they are seeking as is being made out by them. It is a show cause notice as to why appropriate action should not be taken against me as the allegations levied against me in the notice. I cannot disclose the content of the notice."

As per reports of April 25, Shaikh liked and made comments on pro-Palestine, pro-Hamas, anti-Hindu and anti-Modi regime tweets. The Somaiya trust management issued a statement, "We were unaware of the sentiments expressed until it was brought to our notice. We do not agree with such sentiments. It is certainly concerning."