The Calcutta High Court has brought major relief to over 32,000 primary teachers in West Bengal. A special bench of the High Court recently stopped an earlier order that would have removed these teachers from their jobs. This important decision means that these teachers, who have served for many years, can continue working. The court stated that taking away jobs after a long period would cause severe problems for the teachers and their families.
The issue started earlier this year when a Single Bench of the Calcutta High Court passed an order to cancel these teacher appointments. This decision came after a petition was filed regarding an alleged appointment scam. It was claimed that there were irregularities in how teachers were selected by the School Service Commission (SSC) in West Bengal. This earlier order put the jobs of more than 32,000 primary teachers at risk, leading to widespread concern.
Many of these teachers had been working in primary schools for nearly nine years . The sudden order to cancel their jobs caused much distress. Facing the loss of their livelihood, a large number of these teachers had also organised protests in Kolkata. They urged the authorities to consider their long service and the impact of job loss on their families. These protests showed the seriousness of the situation for thousands of individuals.
Following the Single Bench's order, the affected teachers appealed to a higher part of the High Court, known as the Division Bench . A Division Bench typically includes two or more judges who review decisions made by a Single Bench. This legal process allows for a re-examination of complex cases, especially those with wide-ranging consequences.
The Division Bench carefully reviewed all the details of the case. The judges paid special attention to the human impact of the earlier order. They observed that if people who had been working for close to nine years were suddenly removed from their jobs, it would lead to great difficulties. Such a decision would not only affect the teachers but also their entire families, including dependents. The court recognised the severe hardship and uncertainty this would create.
Based on these strong observations about the social and economic impact, the Division Bench decided to overturn the earlier order. By cancelling the Single Bench's directive, the High Court has effectively protected the jobs of all 32,000 primary teachers . This means they will not be removed from service as per the previous order. The ruling brings a sense of security and stability back into their lives.
This court decision is highly significant for the education sector in West Bengal. It offers much-needed relief to a large number of teachers and their families. The timing of this decision is also notable, as it comes just a few months before the West Bengal assembly elections . The High Court's ruling highlights the legal system's role in addressing complex employment issues and ensuring fair consideration for long-serving employees.
