Surat: A municipal school board principal in the city, Sanjay Patel, has been suspended for travelling abroad without permission and engaging in business activities. Patel allegedly made 33 trips to Dubai over the past two years, citing medical reasons to justify his absences. The suspension was ordered by Gujarat Education Minister Praful Pansheriya and Surat Municipal School Board administrative officer Mehul Patel.

The action followed an anonymous complaint that led to an investigation revealing Patel’s violation of Section 3 of the Gujarat Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1971. Despite prior notices, Patel provided unsatisfactory responses and failed to appear before authorities.

Minister Pansheriya also disclosed a statewide crackdown on teachers engaging in similar misconduct, with 60 suspensions issued so far. Authorities are now verifying if Patel drew a salary during his unauthorised trips and may demand repayment if confirmed. DeshGujarat