The Kerala government has decided to legally challenge the Supreme Court’s ruling that makes Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) mandatory for in-service teachers. The state argues that enforcing the TET rule on teachers who have already been working for years could lead to uncertainty and job insecurity. This move has sparked debate within the education sector, raising questions about fairness, teacher quality, and the future of school education.
I chose to write about this because the issue goes beyond Kerala and touches upon the larger debate about teacher qualifications across India. The Supreme Court’s ruling was meant to ensure higher standards of teaching in schools, but states like Kerala worry that applying it to those already in service will create disruption. For many teachers, especially those who joined under different rules, the requirement feels like a sudden shift of goalposts. This is important for parents, students, and policymakers alike, because it impacts classroom teaching quality as well as job security of thousands of teachers. It also brings into focus the balance between improving education and protecting the rights of long-serving staff.
What the Supreme Court Ruling Says
The Supreme Court recently ruled that passing the Teacher Eligibility Test is mandatory for all teachers, including those already working in schools. Earlier, many states exempted in-service teachers from this requirement, but the Court clarified that such exemptions dilute the standard set by the Right to Education (RTE) Act.
Kerala’s Stand on the Issue
The Kerala government argues that applying TET to in-service teachers is impractical. Many teachers have been serving for decades and are close to retirement. Forcing them to appear for an exam now could demotivate them and even lead to teacher shortages if they fail. The state also points out that its own recruitment process is rigorous, with qualified candidates already passing through Public Service Commission (PSC) exams.
Impact on Teachers and Schools
- Teachers fear job loss or demotion if they do not clear TET.
- Students may face disruptions if experienced teachers are removed.
- Schools could struggle to replace long-serving staff quickly.
- At the same time, supporters of the ruling say it ensures a uniform quality standard across India.
Balancing Quality with Fairness
There is no doubt that teacher quality is central to improving learning outcomes. However, reforms also need to be practical and considerate of those who have been working under older rules. Some experts suggest a middle path: while TET can remain mandatory for new recruits, alternative assessments or training programs could be offered for existing teachers instead of forcing them into the same exam.
