Gujarat HC Pulls Up Government Over Ashram School Teacher Shortage, Transfer Policy
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Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
The Gujarat High Court has pulled up the state government over the deteriorating condition of Ashram schools and shortage of teachers, directing it to frame clear rules to ensure that teachers appointed specifically for such schools are not transferred to other grant-in-aid institutions.
A Chief Justice-led bench was hearing a petition concerning the functioning of Ashram schools across Gujarat, including the shortage of teaching staff and inadequate oversight.
Teachers May Be Transferred Between Ashram Schools
The court observed that the policy for Ashram schools should clearly provide that teachers appointed to these institutions cannot subsequently be transferred to other grant-in-aid schools.
However, the court indicated that transfers between Ashram schools could be permitted, subject to the applicable rules.
The bench also emphasised that teachers appointed to serve in Ashram schools cannot refuse postings in remote areas.
Court Questions Use Of Public Funds
During the hearing, the court expressed strong concern over the use of public funds for institutions that are failing to provide adequate education.
The bench made it clear that it would not permit individuals to enjoy the benefits of government-funded employment while avoiding the responsibilities associated with teaching in remote Ashram schools.
Legal Services Authority Finds Schools Without Teachers
The issue gained further significance after an on-site inspection conducted by the Gujarat State Legal Services Authority reportedly found Ashram schools being run by NGOs without teachers.
The findings raised questions about the quality of education being provided to children at institutions operating without adequate teaching staff and supervision.
Government Seeks Four Weeks To Frame Rules
The High Court asked the state government how much time it would require to formulate rules governing the recruitment and appointment of Ashram school teachers.
The government sought four weeks to prepare the rules.
The court subsequently adjourned the matter for one month, keeping the issue of teacher recruitment and deployment under consideration.
