Bhubaneswar, July 9:The Kalahandi district administration has transferred Santanu Kumar Meher, headmaster of Government (SSD) High School in Madanpur, following serious allegations of sexual harassment, inappropriate behaviour, and casteist remarks against female staff members.

The action came after multiple complaints from school staff, supported by video and audio clips that circulated widely on social media, sparking public outrage. Acting on the complaints, the Collector's office on July 8 issued an order relieving Meher of his responsibilities at the school and directing him to remain stationed at the office of the District Welfare Officer (DWO) until further instructions.

Mukesh Naik, a Trained Graduate Teacher (TGT) at the school, has been given additional charge as the acting headmaster to ensure the institution's academic and administrative work continues without disruption.

The district administration has also constituted a high-level inquiry committee led by the Sub-Collector and the Additional District Welfare Officer (ADWO) to examine the allegations and verify the authenticity of the evidence submitted by the complainants.

As part of the investigation, the In-charge District Welfare Officer, accompanied by a woman officer, conducted an on-site inquiry at the school on Tuesday. Based on the preliminary findings, officials removed Meher from the school and transferred him to the District Welfare Office headquarters pending further action.

Officials said Meher has been instructed to report to the District Welfare Officer's office until further orders. The In-charge DWO also confirmed that a recommendation will be forwarded to the state government seeking his suspension.

Police action is expected after the inquiry report is submitted to the competent authorities and further legal proceedings are initiated.