TET rule puts over 1 lakh MP teachers at risk:Congress says, ‘Conduct training not exams amid growing fear’

More than one lakh teachers in Madhya Pradesh are facing uncertainty after the state made the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) mandatory for certain categories of educators. The move has triggered concern and unrest among teachers across the state. Former minister urges govt to approach Supreme Court Former minister PC Sharma has written to Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, urging the government to file a review petition in the Supreme Court. He said that forcing already appointed teachers to reappear for an exam is unfair, especially when they were recruited under existing rules and possess qualifications like D.Ed and B.Ed. Sharma highlighted that many teachers are feeling anxious and demoralised. He suggested that while TET can be made mandatory for future recruitments, existing teachers should be exempted. Congress suggests training instead of examination State Congress chief Jitu Patwari criticized the government, stating that instead of conducting exams, teachers should be given proper training. He argued that training would improve teaching quality without creating unnecessary pressure. Why TET has been made mandatory The School Education Department has issued orders stating that teachers appointed before the implementation of the Right to Education Act 2009 must pass the TET to continue in service. The Directorate of Public Instruction (DPI), Bhopal, has instructed officials to ensure compliance. Teachers who have more than five years left before retirement must clear the TET within two years of the order. Failure to do so may lead to termination. Political opposition grows across parties Opposition to the decision is not limited to one party. BJP leaders, including MP Darshan Singh Choudhary and former MLA Murlidhar Patidar, have also urged the government to reconsider the decision and file a review petition. They warned that teachers with over 25 years of service could lose their jobs, despite being appointed through valid processes. Teachers prepare for statewide protest Teacher organizations have begun preparing for protests. They plan to submit memorandums to MPs, MLAs, and other public representatives by March 28, urging them to raise the issue and push for relief. A major meeting of teacher unions is scheduled in Bhopal on March 29, where further protest strategies and the formation of a joint front will be discussed. Uncertain future ahead With growing political pressure and potential protests, the issue is likely to escalate further. Teachers across the state are now waiting for a decisive move from the government to secure their jobs and address their concerns.