The future of nearly one lakh teachers has once again come under uncertainty as the state government has decided to approach the Supreme Court regarding the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) requirement. The move follows a recent directive that only TET-qualified teachers can continue in service, raising serious concerns for thousands of educators who were appointed without this qualification.
I’m writing about this issue because it directly affects the lives of lakhs of teachers, their families, and the quality of education in government schools. The TET was introduced to ensure qualified teaching standards, but the transition has left many long-serving teachers uncertain about their future. It’s important to understand the reasons behind the legal move, its possible outcomes, and what it could mean for both teachers and students across the state.
Why the State Approached the Supreme Court
The state government decided to move the Supreme Court after a recent High Court ruling made it mandatory for all teachers in government and government-aided schools to possess TET qualification. The order stated that teachers without a valid TET certificate cannot continue in their posts. This ruling affected nearly one lakh teachers, many of whom have been serving for years but were appointed before TET became compulsory.
According to state officials, the government’s plea seeks relief for these teachers, arguing that removing them would severely disrupt the functioning of schools, especially in rural areas where the shortage of teachers is already a concern. The government’s petition aims to seek either an exemption or an extended timeline for these teachers to clear TET without losing their jobs.
What Is TET and Why It Matters
The Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) is a national-level examination designed to assess the teaching aptitude and subject knowledge of candidates aspiring to teach in government schools. It was made mandatory by the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, to ensure uniform teaching standards across the country.
Clearing TET is essential for appointments as primary and upper primary teachers. It ensures that educators meet the minimum qualification standards laid down by the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE). However, several states, including West Bengal, have a significant number of teachers who were recruited before this rule came into effect.
Impact on Teachers and Students
If the Supreme Court upholds the High Court’s order, thousands of teachers might face termination or suspension. This would not only affect their livelihoods but also create a shortage of trained educators in many schools. On the other hand, implementing the TET requirement ensures that students receive education from qualified professionals.
Education experts suggest a balanced approach—allowing currently serving teachers a grace period to clear TET while maintaining strict standards for future appointments. Such a solution would protect both job security and educational quality.
Government’s Argument and Next Steps
The state government’s counsel is expected to argue that many of these teachers have been performing well for years and their removal would lead to academic disruptions. The plea seeks the Supreme Court’s direction to regularise these teachers or allow them to continue teaching while appearing for TET in upcoming sessions.
The case is likely to be heard in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, the education department has advised teachers to stay updated on official notices and prepare for the next TET exam, which may serve as a pathway to job regularisation.
