Government-run teachers’ hostels misused in MP:Indore facility becomes storeroom; Jabalpur converted into guest house

Around seven lakh government teachers in Madhya Pradesh often travel to divisional headquarters for official work. To provide affordable accommodation and reduce dependence on expensive hotels, 12 Teachers’ Houses were constructed across the state, offering rooms at a nominal charge of just ₹70 per day. However, the scheme has largely collapsed. Most of these buildings are either in a dilapidated condition or have been taken over by other government departments. As a result, visiting teachers are now forced to stay in costly hotels or with relatives, a situation that particularly affects women teachers. Chhatravir Singh Rathore, State President of the MP Teachers’ Association, said, “The issue has been raised in the Teachers’ Welfare Council.” He demanded that the buildings be vacated immediately, renovated, and their maintenance handed over to teacher organizations. Indore: Storeroom turned neglected facility The Teachers’ Residence near Khajrana Temple, built with 16 rooms in 1995, was functional until 2005. It was later converted into office use and eventually used as a storeroom filled with bicycles and books. Following protests, it was locked and has since deteriorated. Jabalpur: Leased out as private guest house The 21-room Teachers’ Residence at Bhedaghat, inaugurated in 1995, was earlier run at nominal charges. After remaining closed during the COVID-19 period, it was later leased to private operators for ₹5,000 per month and converted into a guest house named Holiday Home. Tikamgarh: Partially converted into shops A Teachers’ House built using MLA funds near Kotwali was partly converted into commercial shops. Teachers now have limited access, with most of the premises under local control. Ujjain: Building reduced to ruins An 18-room Teachers’ House in the Public Education Office premises, started in 1995, has fallen into complete disrepair and now stands in ruins. It was once used by visiting teachers but has been closed for years. Officials said a legal process is underway to remove encroachments and restore these properties. “We are preparing an action plan to bring all teachers’ houses back under control and renovate them. Legal steps are being discussed to clear encroachments, and the facilities will soon be revived,” said RS Mishra, in-charge, National Teachers’ Welfare Foundation.