Surat municipal school principal suspended after viral “chicken party” at alumni meet

Surat | Gujarat — A controversy erupted in Surat after a “chicken party” at a municipal school alumni gathering led to the suspension of the in-charge principal. Prabhakar Ramaiya Eligheti, in charge at Pandit Dindayal Upadhyay Primary School in Godadara, was suspended following viral photos and videos of the event circulating on social media.

Alumni reunion held without formal approval

The 1987–1991 alumni batch reunion took place on Sunday at School No. 342. A Telugu-language banner outside the school announced the event. Tables and chairs were set up, and a non-vegetarian meal was reportedly served during the gathering.

Sources indicate that the principal and other staff members were present, raising questions about compliance with municipal school guidelines.

Principal suspended amid public backlash

Following the viral content, Committee Chairman Rajendra Kapadia and In-Charge Administrative Officer Mehul Patel suspended the principal. The move comes amid public outcry over the event and concerns about proper oversight and accountability in municipal schools.

“The gathering took place without formal approval, which is a violation of school policies. Appropriate action has been taken,” a Surat Municipal Primary Education Committee official said.

Despite the suspension, sources say some committee members tried to shield the principal, fueling further debate among parents and the local community.