Delays in regularisation have harmed careers and morale; authorities must learn from Ladakh and 2018 SAC exemption
Nasir Hussain Peerzada
Education serves as the backbone of any progressive society, shaping future generations and fostering national development. Recognising this, it is imperative that teachers—the nation’s builders—are accorded due respect, encouragement, and acknowledgement for their vital contributions. However, despite their crucial role, the legitimate rights and benefits of the teaching fraternity remain inadequately safeguarded, leading to grievances and demoralisation within the sector.
One of the persistent issues plaguing the department is the practice of promoting officers in a “look after” capacity. This mechanism, which involves appointing officers temporarily to higher positions without immediate regularisation, has adversely affected their promotional benefits. For decades, this practice has resulted in career stagnation, delayed confirmations, and extended periods of uncertainty for many officers. Consequently, numerous teachers and officers have either retired or passed away without fully enjoying the benefits of their due promotions.
Specifically, the promotion process to higher cadres—such as Senior Lecturers to Principals, Principals to CEOs, and CEOs to Joint Directors—has been hindered by this outdated system. The delays in confirmation and regularisation have not only affected individual careers but have also impacted the morale and efficiency of the entire department. The frustration stemming from long-standing delays underscores the urgent need for reform.
In this context, I urge the concerned authorities to consider implementing the Assured Career Progression (ACP) scheme for lecturers, which has recently been granted to their counterparts in Ladakh. Such a scheme would provide timely and assured promotions, boosting morale and ensuring career growth for teachers.
Furthermore, the practice of promoting officers solely in a “look after” capacity should be discontinued. Instead, all officers working in such capacities must be regularised promptly. This step will not only address their long-standing demands but also restore their dignity, enhance departmental efficiency, and alleviate their mental anguish.
It is pertinent to recall that in 2018, the then State Administrative Council (SAC) granted a one-time exemption, facilitating the regularisation of many Principals in a single go. Extending similar treatment to all officers serving as look-after Principals, CEOs, and Joint Directors would be a positive gesture and a step towards revitalising the working culture within the department.
Addressing these issues with urgency and fairness will reinvigorate the department, motivate teachers and officers, and strengthen the foundation of our educational system.
With regards,
Nasir Hussain Peerzada
Retired Look After Principal
pz********@***il.com