Did the Odisha Government Empower MPs and MLAs to Recommend Teacher Transfers?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, the Odisha government has granted MPs and MLAs the power to recommend teacher transfers within their constituencies, allowing up to 15 teachers to be considered. This decision aims to address urgent needs while adhering to rationalization principles, yet it remains a one-time measure for the current academic year.
Key Takeaways
- The Odisha government allows MPs and MLAs to recommend teacher transfers.
- Up to 15 teachers can be transferred within constituencies.
- Transfers are limited to intra-district movements.
- Proposals must adhere to rationalization principles.
- This policy is a one-time measure for the academic year.
Bhubaneswar, May 13 (NationPress) The Odisha government has empowered elected officials in the state to suggest the transfer of up to 15 primary and secondary school teachers within their respective constituencies, as per a notification released by the School and Mass Education (S&ME) Department on Tuesday.
The notification states, “After thorough consideration, the government is pleased to grant discretion to Hon’ble MPs/MLAs to recommend up to fifteen (15) deserving cases of teacher transfers (including both Elementary & Secondary) relevant to their constituency area, to the concerned District Collector for action by the District Level Transfer Committee (DLTC) during this transfer session.”
However, the state government has established specific conditions for the Members of the Legislative Assembly and Members of Parliament.
According to the S&ME department notification, recommendations must adhere to the principle of rationalization, with priority given to teachers in urgent need.
The government has prohibited the transfer of teachers from rural to urban areas, clarifying that elected representatives can only propose transfers within the same district.
“This discretion is valid solely for intra-district transfers. Proposals from Hon’ble MPs/MLAs should be submitted to the relevant District Collector and dealt with by the DLTC. In cases where a Parliamentary Constituency (PC) spans multiple districts, proposals will be directed to the Nodal Collector (Returning Officer of that PC) with notification to other Collectors in that PC's jurisdiction for consideration by respective DLTC(s),” the notification elaborates.
Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha MPs are advised to forward their recommendations to the Director of Secondary Education, with a copy to the Director of Elementary Education, who will subsequently send the list to the respective Collectors with notification to the DEE for processing by the DLTC(s).
The Odisha government has stipulated that all proposals must be submitted and addressed during this transfer session (from May 15 to June 15) only.
It was also noted that this provision represents a one-time measure applicable exclusively for the current academic year.
A similar notification was issued by the previous BJD-led administration in 2021, permitting elected representatives to recommend the transfer of up to 10 primary and secondary school teachers within their constituencies during the 2021-2022 academic year.
Point of View
The decision by the Odisha government to empower MPs and MLAs to recommend teacher transfers is a strategic move to enhance educational accessibility. It prioritizes urgent needs while ensuring that rationalization principles are upheld. This reflects a commitment to improving education in the region, aligning with broader national goals.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new policy regarding teacher transfers in Odisha?
The Odisha government has authorized MPs and MLAs to recommend the transfer of up to 15 primary and secondary school teachers within their constituencies during the current academic year.
Are there any restrictions on the teacher transfers?
Yes, the government has prohibited the transfer of teachers from rural to urban areas and stipulates that transfers must occur within the same district.
What is the time frame for submitting transfer recommendations?
All proposals for teacher transfers must be submitted and processed during the transfer session from May 15 to June 15.
Is this policy a permanent measure?
No, this provision is a one-time measure applicable only for the current educational year.
How does this policy compare to previous measures?
A similar notification was issued in 2021, allowing for the transfer of up to 10 teachers, indicating a trend towards increasing flexibility for elected representatives.
