Stay on reversion brings relief, renews hope of Elementary School Headmasters
Elementary School Headmasters (ESHMs) posted at various government schools across the state have heaved a sigh of relief, as the Directorate of School Education (DSE) has stayed the execution of reversion orders issued against them on May 27 under which a total of 330 ESHMs were reverted to their previous posts, citing improperly granted relaxation in eligibility criteria. With the DSE now reviewing the matter, the affected teachers are hopeful of a permanent resolution in their favour.
What is the latest order regarding reversion of ESHMs?
The DSE on Monday stayed the execution of reversion orders issued on May 27. District Elementary Education Officers (DEEOs) across the state have been directed not to proceed with any action unless further instructions are issued. The decision comes after several affected ESHMs submitted representations, prompting a departmental review. This comes as a major relief to the affected ESHMs, as the DSE stated that the matter was at present under examination.
When were they reverted to their previous posts?
They were reverted to their previous posts on May 27 following an order issued by the DSE. The order had stated that Trained Graduate Teachers (TGTs)/ Language Teachers serving at government schools were considered and promoted to the post of ESHM from time to time. It came to the notice that certain SC/BC candidates were inadvertently granted relaxation of 5 per cent in their BA degree marks during the promotion process, based on the instruction issued by the Chief Secretary on July 16, 2014. “However, on clarification from the Chief Secretary, it is confirmed that this letter only pertains to relaxation in marks to candidates of reserved categories for the purpose of admissions in educational institutions and not to provide relaxation in promotion in any department of the state,” the order had added. Interestingly, among the ESHMs, several had either superannuated or were deceased. In such cases, the DEEO concerned were directed to immediately undertake pay re-fixation in accordance with applicable rules and instructions as the reversion was not applicable to them.
What was the reason for their reversion?
The department re-examined the promotion cases of such SC/BC candidates through the committees. On reviewing, it was found that several candidates were wrongly granted relaxation in eligibility and thus promoted in contravention to the applicable service rules, hence they were reverted to their substantive posts of TGT/C&V with immediate effect. As per the reversion orders, the Chief Secretary office also clarified that under GAD instructions, dated March15,1983 relaxation in qualification and experience was granted at the time of direct recruitment only when the sufficient number of candidates of reserved categories were not available.
When were they promoted?
The affected teachers were promoted from the posts of TGTs or Language Teachers to ESHMs over a decade ago. They suffered a setback when the DSE issued orders of their reversion on May 27. It also created a stir among the ESHMs forcing them to approach the DSE.
Why did the DSE have to stay its previous order?
The stay was imposed due to multiple representations filed by affected ESHMs against the reversion orders. In response, the DSE has now halted further action and initiated a review, stating that the matter is under active examination to ensure fairness and compliance with service rules.
Haryana Tribune