LUCKNOW, Jan. 3 -- The headmaster of a primary school in Nawazkheda village, under Mohanlalganj tehsil of Lucknow, Ravindra Gupta, has been suspended after books meant for students were allegedly sold to a scrap dealer. Basic education officer (BSA) Vipin Kumar confirmed the serious lapse.

An official, who requested anonymity, said that while negligence during inspections was possible, the workbooks and textbooks were available on the school premises. "In such a situation, the books should have been distributed among children instead of being sold as scrap," he said.

When contacted by Hindustan Times, Kumar said the letter of suspension "speaks for itself" and declined further comment on the matter.

The issue came to light on Tuesday a...