Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly has passed a resolution seeking exemption from the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) for teachers who were appointed before October 31, 2019.
The resolution was moved by School Education Minister Sakeena Itoo and was passed by voice vote after a discussion in the House. Members from different parties took part in the discussion and raised concerns about the requirement for experienced teachers to clear the eligibility test.
The resolution asks the Centre to make the necessary changes to the Right to Education Act to provide relief to teachers covered by the proposed exemption. It also calls for appropriate steps through the National Council for Teacher Education.
During the discussion, members pointed out that many of the affected teachers have already spent several years in the education sector. They argued that their experience and existing service should be taken into account while deciding the eligibility requirements.
The issue gained importance following a Supreme Court ruling concerning the requirement of TET for in-service teachers covered under the Right to Education Act. The Assembly resolution seeks a specific exemption for teachers appointed before the October 31, 2019 cut-off.
School Education Minister Sakeena Itoo said the government would take up the matter with the Centre. She said the concerns raised by teachers and legislators would be conveyed to the Union Government for consideration.
The resolution does not by itself change the existing TET requirement. Any exemption would require action at the appropriate level, including the necessary legal or regulatory changes.
The Assembly’s move has now formally placed the demand before the Centre, with the government expected to pursue the matter further on behalf of the affected teachers.
