Did the Calcutta HC Reject the Petition for Age Relaxation in Teacher Recruitment?
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Synopsis
In a significant ruling, the Calcutta High Court denied a petition from TET-qualified candidates seeking age limit relaxation for the 2025 teacher recruitment. This decision sparks controversy as candidates plan to appeal, hoping for a different outcome. How will this affect future teacher recruitment in West Bengal?
Key Takeaways
- Calcutta High Court dismissed a petition from 2022 TET candidates.
- Petitioners plan to appeal the decision in a division bench.
- The recruitment process for primary teachers has not occurred in eight years.
- There are 13,421 vacancies for teaching positions.
- The TET is essential for primary teacher recruitment.
Kolkata, Nov 25 (NationPress) The Calcutta High Court has dismissed a petition from candidates who qualified the 2022 Teachers Eligibility Test (TET), seeking to have their age limit relaxed for participation in the upcoming recruitment process for 2025.
The ruling came from a single bench presided over by Justice Biswajit Basu.
The petitioners expressed their intention to appeal this decision in a division bench of the High Court.
These candidates had sought to join the new recruitment for primary teachers in government-run schools in West Bengal.
Legal representatives Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya and Bikram Banerjee argued that the High Court had previously ruled in favor of similar requests.
They referenced a past instance where age relaxation was granted to candidates from the 2017 TET.
They believe the prospective teachers deserve the same opportunity in this case.
The TET is a prerequisite for obtaining teaching positions in primary education.
However, the West Bengal Primary Education Board clarified that the age relaxation for 2017 candidates was a result of their challenge against the 2016 regulations, implying that this precedent does not apply to the current situation.
After hearing arguments from both sides, the judge dismissed the petition based on the statements presented.
This petition was submitted following the launch of online applications for new primary teacher recruitment in West Bengal, which has not occurred for eight years, beginning November 19.
Moreover, this recruitment coincides with the conclusion of hearings regarding alleged irregularities in the hiring of approximately 32,000 primary teachers from prior years, with a judgment expected soon.
The recruitment notification for primary teachers was issued in September, with the West Bengal Board of Primary Education announcing the filling of 13,421 vacant positions.
Candidates who have successfully passed the TET will be eligible to apply for assistant teacher positions in government-approved and government-sponsored primary and junior (basic) schools via the online platform.
Point of View
I believe the recent ruling by the Calcutta High Court reflects the complexities of educational regulations and recruitment processes. While the petitioners seek fairness, it’s essential to maintain the integrity of recruitment standards. The court's decision may shape future educational policies and recruitment frameworks in the region.
NationPress
25/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the outcome of the petition?
The Calcutta High Court dismissed the petition from 2022 TET-qualified candidates seeking age limit relaxation for the 2025 recruitment process.
Will the petitioners appeal the decision?
Yes, the petitioners have expressed their intention to challenge the single bench decision in a division bench of the High Court.
What is the significance of the TET exam?
The TET exam is a mandatory requirement for recruitment as primary teachers in state-run educational institutions.
How many vacancies are available for new teachers?
The West Bengal Board of Primary Education has announced recruitment for 13,421 vacant teacher positions.
When did the online application process start?
The online application for new primary teacher recruitment began on November 19.
