In a landmark move, Bihar’s cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, has approved granting government employee status to approximately 3.5 lakh contractual teachers serving across government schools in the state.
This decision, announced after a cabinet meeting, signifies a significant shift for these educators, categorizing them as ‘exclusive teachers’ with the privileges associated with government employment, confirmed a state official.
S Siddharth, Additional Chief Secretary (Cabinet Secretariat), highlighted the imminent alteration in the teachers’ status. “Upon notification by the state government, these contractual teachers will attain the esteemed position of ‘exclusive teachers’ with full-fledged government employee status,” he stated. The proposal, initially presented by the state’s Education department, gained approval during the recent cabinet session.
Elaborating on the policy’s workings, Siddharth emphasized the requirement for these ‘exclusive teachers’ to undergo mandatory ‘competency examinations’ to retain their government employee status. The responsibility for conducting these examinations will soon be assigned to a government agency, he confirmed.
In explaining the examination process, Siddharth outlined that these teachers would be provided three attempts to pass the competency tests. For those unable to clear the assessments, the Bihar government will make decisions regarding their status at a later stage.
Regarding their remuneration, Siddharth clarified that the current salary structure remains unchanged. However, any revisions in salaries will adhere to guidelines established by the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) post the successful completion of the competency tests.
The timing of this significant decision bears significance, occurring just months ahead of the scheduled Lok Sabha elections in April-May. Bihar, wielding 40 seats in the 543-seat Lok Sabha, holds considerable sway in the upcoming polls.
This move by the Bihar Cabinet has garnered attention, potentially affecting the political landscape, particularly as it aligns with the impending elections. The ruling Mahagathbandhan, comprising JD(U), RJD, Congress, and Left parties, stands as a key player among the opposition groups poised to challenge the Narendra Modi-led BJP, eyeing a third consecutive term at the Centre.
As Bihar gears up for the electoral showdown, this policy decision regarding contractual teachers assumes significance in the broader political context, potentially impacting the dynamics of the impending Lok Sabha polls.
Sources By Agencies
