KISHTWAR, Jun 28: Senior Jammu and Kashmir National Conference leader and Chenab Valley Zone spokesperson Ajeet Bhagat has alleged large-scale irregularities in the functioning of the School Education Department, claiming that the department has become a hub of corruption, particularly in matters relating to the posting and transfer of teachers in the districts of Kishtwar, Doda, and Ramban.
Addressing the issue, Bhagat alleged that hundreds of teachers have remained posted at locations of their choice for several years in violation of the government’s transfer policy. He claimed that a number of teachers posted in remote areas rarely report for duty and instead continue to run their private businesses while drawing salaries from the department without performing their official responsibilities.
Bhagat further alleged that several teachers have managed to retain their preferred postings by using their influence with senior officials. According to him, this has resulted in genuine and deserving teachers being deprived of postings in accessible or urban areas due to an alleged nexus operating within the department.
He claimed that schools located in towns and cities have become the most sought-after postings and are largely occupied by influential teachers, while many hardworking teachers continue to serve in far-flung and difficult areas throughout their careers without being given an opportunity to serve closer to their home districts.
The National Conference leader said that concerns regarding alleged favouritism and lack of transparency in teacher transfers have surfaced on several occasions in the past. However, he alleged that the issue has persisted due to the deliberate indifference of higher authorities and the weak resolve of the administration to implement transfer policies fairly and transparently.
Bhagat further stated that the administration is well aware of the hardships faced by many teachers who continue to serve in remote regions because of the alleged nexus in the department. He claimed that these teachers have spent a major part of their service away from their families despite being eligible for transfers to their home areas.
He urged the administration and the School Education Department to ensure strict implementation of the transfer policy, bring greater transparency to the transfer process, and take appropriate action against any officials or employees found violating government norms to restore fairness and accountability in the education system.