Prayagraj’s prestigious Boys High School is in the spotlight for an unfortunate reason. Established in 1861, this iconic school, which once educated Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan, is now facing a major controversy. The current Principal, David Luke, has been accused of securing his position using a fake MA degree, shaking the institution’s reputation.
Allegations of Fake Degree Against David Luke
David Luke, who took over as Acting Principal in 2012, is now facing serious allegations that his educational credentials are not genuine. According to a complaint filed by Bishop Morris Edgar Dan of the Diocese of Lucknow, Luke’s degree, specifically his MA certificate, is fake. The school has a history of producing many notable alumni, and this scandal is a big blow to its image.
Bishop Dan reported this issue to the Civil Lines police station, demanding an investigation into Luke’s background. He also asked for the recovery of the salary and allowances Luke had received during his tenure as principal, amounting to over Rs 3.25 crore.
David Luke’s Fake MA Degree: How It Unfolded
In 2007, David Luke submitted a marksheet from Chhatrapati Shahuji Maharaj University, Kanpur, while applying for the Principal’s post. His MA degree was supposedly earned through an individual exam in English. However, after several complaints regarding the authenticity of his documents, the university was contacted for verification.
On August 8, 2024, the university confirmed that the roll number on Luke’s marksheet was not registered for the relevant session. This led to the conclusion that his degree had not been certified by Kanpur University, revealing that Luke had forged his educational documents.
Ongoing Investigation: Police Report Confirms Forgery
After the complaint, Senior Sub Inspector Chandrabhan Singh of the Civil Lines police station began investigating the case. His findings confirmed the allegations of fraud. According to the investigation report, Luke had indeed forged his documents and illegally assumed the position of principal.
The police report has been sent to the Police Commissioner of Prayagraj, and it details how David Luke embezzled salary payments and allowances over the years. The report also highlights the forgery of documents, including the fake marksheet, which enabled Luke to secure his job and maintain his position for over a decade.
School’s Management Remains Tight-Lipped
Despite the severity of the accusations, David Luke and his family have remained relatively silent on the matter. When News 18 attempted to reach out to him, the school management informed them that Luke was out of town. His wife, Chris Bell Luke, who is also a teacher at Boys High School, declined to comment on the situation, stating that they would only speak after consulting their lawyers.
Luke’s refusal to provide a clear response has raised further suspicions, with many awaiting a legal resolution to the case. As of now, the police investigation continues, and the school’s management has not taken any formal action against him.
Bishop Morris Edgar Dan Also in the Spotlight
The whistleblower in this case, Bishop Morris Edgar Dan, is no stranger to controversy himself. Although he is the one raising questions about Luke’s credentials, serious allegations have also been made against him. Former members of the Diocese of Lucknow have accused Bishop Dan of financial irregularities, which have tainted his reputation.
There have even been questions regarding his own appointment to the post of Bishop. Despite this, Bishop Dan’s complaint against David Luke has led to significant developments, putting the principal’s future at the school in jeopardy.
Impact on Boys High School’s Reputation
As the scandal unfolds, the reputation of Boys High School is taking a major hit. This institution, which has stood the test of time for over a century, now faces scrutiny due to the actions of its principal. With over 8,000 students enrolled, parents and students are concerned about the impact this controversy will have on the school’s future.
The school’s reputation as a prestigious educational institution is being tarnished by the battle between the principal and the bishop. Both parties seem to be entangled in their own controversies, raising questions about the integrity of the school’s leadership.
Future of Students in Jeopardy
While this dispute between the principal and the bishop continues, the future of the students is becoming uncertain. Boys High School has long been considered one of the best schools in Prayagraj, but this scandal is casting a shadow over its standing.
Parents are worried about the school’s management and whether such controversies could affect their children’s education. Although no immediate changes have been announced, the pressure is mounting on the school to take corrective action and restore its image.
As the investigation progresses, all eyes are on Boys High School, waiting to see how this scandal will be resolved and what measures will be taken to safeguard the future of its students. The once-revered institution is now caught in a legal and moral battle, with its reputation hanging in the balance.
