Scuffle over control of CNI Allahabad schools

Two Christian groups are fighting for control over 150-year-old Boys High School and Colleges (BHS) and Girls High School and Colleges (GHS) in Allahabad.

The Church of North India has charged that a former principal allegedly got the by-laws of the Allahabad High School Society (AHSS) changed in a bid to extend his tenure.

The CNI Bishop of Lucknow, Morris Edgar Dan, on Wednesday said he feared for his life and asked the government to provide security to him and the two institutions.

He said the outgoing principal CV Innes, who also is nominated MLA from Anglo Indian community in Vidhan Sabha, is battling to claim control over the institution. CV Innes reportedly retired in 2008 and was continuing illegally on the post of principal.

The tussle got murkier on Monday as some unidentified persons reportedly demolished the boundary wall of the English medium girl's school in Civil Lines.

According to the police, a group of nearly 150-200 people reached the school and began pushing the main gate in a bid to forcibly enter the premises.

The Indian Express reported that the situation was brought under control after senior administration and police officials, including the District Magistrate (Allahabad), Alok Kumar, and DIG/SSP (Allahabad), Ram Kumar, rushed to the spot.

During a press conference, Bishop Dan told reporters that Innes had got the by-laws of society changed and made it such that the Bishop of Lucknow will not be the chairman of the Allahabad High School Society.

He said he had already complained to the Deputy Registrar of Societies and Chit Fund, Allahabad, who disapproved the amendment and gave a decision in his favour. Bishop Dan said Innes lost the case at all levels, including the Supreme Court.

The Bishop said that he has written to the Prime Minister's Office and the UP Governor demanding security.

Parents and school authorities have meanwhile expressed concern over the safety and future of thousands of children studying in the schools. Founded in 1861 the BHS is regarded as one of the oldest and prestigious institutions of Allahabad.