Rajasthan High Court Stays Suspension of Tribal Teacher Over 'Sindoor-Mangalsutra' Controversy

Jodhpur, Rajasthan- In a significant development, the Rajasthan High Court has stayed the suspension of Menka Damor, a tribal teacher from Dungarpur, who was suspended by the Education Department allegedly due to remarks she made about Sindoor and Mangalsutra at a rally in Mangarh, Banswara, on July 18.

The suspension order, which had sparked considerable controversy, has been temporarily halted following an order by Justice Farjand Ali.

Menka Damor, a secondary-grade teacher stationed at a government school in Sadiya, was suspended on July 24. The suspension followed her speech during the Bhil Pradesh Cultural Rally at Mangarh Dham, where she criticized the imposition of traditional Hindu practices on tribal communities.

Damor’s remarks, which included statements about not wearing sindoor or mangalsutra and her views on the role of education in tribal communities, were reportedly deemed controversial by some.

Justice Farjand Ali passed the order on August 2, after hearing the counsel for the petitioner. The court observed that the suspension appeared to be "capricious and arbitrary" and not in line with standard procedural norms.

The court has issued a notice to the respondents, with a returnable date set for September 26, 2024. In the interim, the effect and operation of the suspension order dated July 24, 2024, have been stayed.

This means that Menka Damor will continue to receive her salary and will not be barred from her duties until further notice from the court.

The court’s decision has been met with relief by Damor and her supporters. The suspension had generated significant public interest and debate, with many viewing it as an example of the challenges faced by those who challenge traditional norms and advocate for education and rights within tribal communities.