Principals of two prominent private schools in Bengaluru have been suspended by the Church of South India Karnataka Central Diocese over alleged misappropriation of funds and failure to deliver satisfactory administration. 

Shanta Susheela, principal of St John’s High School, and the Prof Dr S Edwin Christopher, principal of Bishop Cotton’s Boys School,  have been suspended by the school management pending an inquiry into undisclosed allegations. These schools are managed by the Church of South India Karnataka Central Diocese.

Although no official statement has been made confirming the allegations leveled against these principals, the board has only said that the suspensions have been made pending an enquiry.

The 157-year-old Bishop Cotton’s School staff received official communication on July 12 explaining that the decision was taken after members of the executive committee met on July 11. Meanwhile the principal of Bishop Cottons Girls School Dr. Lavanya Mitran will act as the interim head for staff-related issues. 

Sources in the school said that the allegations against Dr Christopher include him spending an unreasonable amount of money renovating his residence while ignoring the school chapel. “The reason for his suspension is poor administration. Another board member, undeserving of the authority was given a free hand to take decisions in administrative matters and allowed to either take or reject admissions of students. He apparently allowed inexperienced teachers to handle classes, resulting in a decline in the quality of education,” said the source.

However, according to media reports, the Diocese refused to issue an official confirmation, calling it an “internal” matter and that it would be discussed only after meeting the principals for an enquiry.