The Allahabad High Court has called the persistent absence of primary school teachers a “curse” on the state’s education system. The court, presided by Justice Ajay Bhanot, emphasized that measures must be taken according to the law to end this issue. It demanded an affidavit from the Principal Secretary of Basic Education, detailing past and current steps to ensure teacher attendance in schools.
Petitioner’s Salary Withheld Due to Absenteeism
The court’s order came during a hearing on a petition by Draupadi Devi, a teacher from Mau district. Her salary had been withheld due to her absence. The Basic Shiksha Adhikari (BSA) Mau, represented by advocate Archana Singh, informed the court of this, prompting the court to seek clear answers from the education department on its action plan. The court set November 26 as the next hearing date.
Government Faces Resistance Over Biometric Attendance
The Yogi government’s July 8, 2024, order introduced biometric attendance for primary teachers. The move sparked protests among teachers, with leaders insisting on its withdrawal. Many BJP MPs and MLAs also demanded a delay. The government temporarily suspended biometric attendance, forming a committee to revisit the decision within two months.
