Priyanka Tiwari
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The Allahabad High Court has expressed serious concerns over the vacant teacher positions in Uttar Pradesh's primary schools. The Court emphasized that providing compulsory education to children aged 6 to 14 is the government's responsibility. However, this can only be achieved if teachers are appointed to primary schools, which, unfortunately, has not been happening in many schools across the state due to a significant number of vacant teaching positions. In light of this, the High Court has issued a notice to the Additional Secretary of Basic Education in Uttar Pradesh, questioning why action should not be taken against officials who are neglecting children's basic right to education.
Case Background and Petition Details
The petition was filed by the management committee of the Agricultural Industrial School. According to the committee, at one point, the school had one approved principal and four assistant teachers. The recruitment process for teachers was concluded on November 15, 2022, but the High Court had stayed the result. On February 15, 2024, the petition was dismissed, but even after a year, the vacancies remain unfilled.
Court’s Stance on Education as a Fundamental Right
Justice Prakash Padia, while hearing the case, referred to Article 21A of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees primary education as a fundamental right for children. He pointed out that it is the government's duty to ensure the provision of primary education, which can only be achieved if vacant teaching positions are filled. The large number of teacher vacancies in Uttar Pradesh's primary schools is, therefore, a direct violation of this constitutional right.
Potential Implications for Teacher Recruitment
The High Court's firm stance could pave the way for the filling of these vacant positions. The Uttar Pradesh government has faced mounting demands to recruit teachers and address the shortage in primary schools. The Court's decision may force action to ensure that the education system meets its constitutional obligations and that children's right to education is upheld.
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