The Meghalaya government has decided to file a review petition in the Supreme Court against its September 1 ruling that made the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) compulsory for all in-service teachers, regardless of when they were appointed.
The move comes after concerns that the decision could impact over 32,000 teachers across the state who were appointed before the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009 came into effect.
Government Seeks Exemption for Pre-RTE Teachers
Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui said the state will seek an exemption for teachers recruited before the implementation of the RTE Act, as the court’s directive appears to have a retrospective effect.
“Our view is that this order impacts teachers who were hired before the RTE Act came into force,” Rymbui told Press Trust of India (PTI). “We are asking the Court to exempt them since they were appointed under the old guidelines.”
He emphasized that Meghalaya has always complied with the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) standards for teacher recruitment after the RTE Act. “The government has followed every guideline issued by the NCTE. There is no non-compliance,” he added.
Over 32,000 Teachers Could Be Affected
According to the Education Minister, more than 32,000 teachers may have to clear the TET within two years to retain their jobs, as per the Supreme Court’s ruling.
He acknowledged that not all teachers might be able to pass the test within the given period. However, those who have already cleared Meghalaya TET (MTET) or Central TET (CTET) are already qualified and do not need to appear again.
Government Defends Teachers’ Qualifications
When asked about the state education commission’s recommendations to phase out underqualified teachers, Rymbui clarified that Meghalaya’s recruitment process has always aligned with NCTE norms.
“Teachers recruited according to NCTE guidelines are already qualified. They meet all required criteria and are eligible to continue teaching,” he said.
State Seeks Fairness, Not Exemption from Standards
Minister Rymbui clarified that the government is not opposing the TET requirement but rather seeking a fair approach that acknowledges the contribution of teachers appointed before 2009.
“Many of these teachers have served for decades and strengthened Meghalaya’s education system. Their experience and dedication should be valued rather than penalized,” he stated.
Supreme Court’s Directive and Its Implications
The Supreme Court’s order on September 1 mandates that all in-service teachers must pass the Teacher Eligibility Test within two years to continue in their posts.
If Meghalaya’s review petition is accepted, it could bring major relief to thousands of educators who were recruited before the RTE Act.
Rymbui expressed optimism that the Supreme Court will review the matter “with empathy and understanding,” ensuring that the livelihoods of long-serving teachers are protected.
