Ghost fear in classroom: School collects money from students to build temple to 'pacify' roaming spirit; Probe ordered

A government school in Kausani, located in Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region, has come under scrutiny after a small temple was constructed within its premises, reportedly to “appease the spirit” of a man believed to have haunted the campus for decades.

The incident has sparked controversy following allegations that funds for the structure were collected from students, parents and teachers.

Kausani School Controversy: Temple Built to Address ‘Paranormal Fear’

According to reports, the belief stems from the death of a Nepali labourer who allegedly died in an accidental fall near the school around 30 years ago. Over time, locals began associating unusual incidents at the school with the presence of his spirit.


Initially, a small brick structure was set up as a temporary measure to “ward off” the spirit.

Students Falling Unconscious Triggered Temple Construction

The situation escalated when several girls studying at the school reportedly began fainting under unexplained circumstances. These incidents were widely attributed by locals to the alleged spirit.

A teacher, quoted by The Times of India (TOI), said counselling sessions were conducted for the affected students before the decision to construct the temple was taken. “In the hills, belief in both gods and spirits is strong. The temple was seen as a way to curb fear,” the teacher said, requesting anonymity.

Funds Collected from Students, Parents and Teachers

The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) initiated the construction in January this year. Sources indicated that Rs 100 was collected from each of the 218 students enrolled in Classes 6 to 12, raising approximately Rs 21,800, while the total cost of the structure was estimated at around Rs 25,000.

Parents and teachers also contributed to the fund.

PTA president Chandan Singh Bhandari told TOI that the decision was taken as students were “frequently falling ill”.

School Administration Defends Decision

School principal Tajbar Singh Negi stated that the funds were collected with parental consent during a PTA meeting. He added that the money was intended for both campus cleaning and construction of the small temple.

“The aim was to create a peaceful environment for studies,” Negi said, as quoted by TOI.

Uttarakhand Education Department Orders Probe

The issue gained attention after some parents and students questioned the collection and use of funds. Following the complaints, the matter was escalated to the education department.

District Chief Education Officer Vinay Kumar confirmed that an inquiry has been ordered. “The matter will be investigated and strict action will be taken against those found responsible,” he told TOI.

The investigation has been assigned to the Block Education Officer in Garur.