Is the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration Taking a Stand Against Calcutta HC's Cancellation of 313 Teaching Jobs?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration is contesting a Calcutta High Court ruling that terminated the jobs of 313 teachers in GTA schools. This decision raises significant questions about legality and governance in education within the region. With an indefinite strike disrupting classes, the situation is poised for further legal examination.
Key Takeaways
- The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration is challenging a High Court ruling.
- 313 teaching jobs have been canceled due to illegal recruitment claims.
- Ongoing strike disrupts education in GTA-run schools.
- State Education Department's non-involvement raises legal questions.
- The legal battle highlights governance issues in education.
Kolkata, Dec 23 (NationPress) The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) officially appealed to a division bench of the Calcutta High Court on Tuesday, contesting a recent ruling made by a single-judge bench that annulled the employment of 313 teachers across various GTA-operated schools located in the Darjeeling, Kurseong, and Kalimpong regions of West Bengal.
This case is set to be reviewed at the Jalpaiguri Circuit Bench by a division bench comprising Justice Tapabrata Chakraborty and Justice Biswaroop Chowdhury.
The specific date for the initial hearing has yet to be confirmed.
On December 17, the Calcutta High Court's single-bench, led by Justice Biswajit Basu, ruled that the recruitment of the 313 teachers was conducted unlawfully, leading to their job cancellations.
Additionally, the bench mandated that the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the West Bengal Police should persist with its inquiries into the situation.
Justice Basu emphasized the immediate cessation of salaries for the 313 teachers, questioning why the state should finance the remuneration of those illegally appointed.
He also expressed concerns regarding the academic qualifications of the 313 educators whose appointments were deemed unlawful.
Following this ruling, on December 18, the Sanyukta Madhyamik Shikshak Sangathan (United Secondary Teachers' Association) initiated an indefinite strike across all GTA-run schools, effectively disrupting the educational process in the Hills.
Initially, the GTA aimed to include the State Education Department in their appeal against the single-judge bench's ruling. However, the department hesitated to participate in the case.
The State Education Department argued that given the GTA's status as an autonomous entity, it does not fall under the general recruitment regulations that apply to state-run school teacher appointments, whether through the West Bengal School Service Commission or the West Bengal Board of Primary Education, leading to legal complexities regarding its involvement.
Consequently, the GTA has opted to challenge the Calcutta High Court's decision independently.
Point of View
The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration's legal challenge against the Calcutta High Court highlights the complexities of governance and education in West Bengal. This case brings to light the importance of adhering to legal standards in teacher appointments while balancing the needs of education in the region. As the situation unfolds, it remains crucial for all parties to navigate these challenges with transparency and integrity.
NationPress
23/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the cancellation of the 313 teaching jobs?
The Calcutta High Court ruled that the recruitment of the 313 teachers was conducted illegally, prompting the cancellation of their jobs.
What is the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration's response?
The GTA has appealed the High Court's decision, seeking to reinstate the teaching positions.
What impact has this situation had on education in the region?
An indefinite strike by the United Secondary Teachers' Association has disrupted academic activities in GTA-run schools.
Why is the State Education Department not involved in the case?
The State Education Department argues that the GTA, as an autonomous body, does not fall under the general recruitment rules for state-run schools.
When will the case be heard?
The date for the initial hearing at the Jalpaiguri Circuit Bench has not yet been confirmed.
