Kashmir Impulse Desk

Srinagar, April 26 

The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) has said a recurring trend of teachers avoiding postings in remote areas is undermining educational discipline and defeating the purpose of region-specific appointments.

A bench led by M S Latif made the observation while dismissing a petition by a teacher seeking an inter-district transfer from Anantnag to Srinagar on health and personal grounds.

The tribunal said such practices weaken access to education in underserved areas, stressing that teaching is central to ensuring the fundamental right to education, particularly for disadvantaged communities.

“The very purpose sought to be achieved by making such appointments is defeated,” the bench said, noting that education must reach areas where access to private schooling is limited.

The tribunal reiterated that courts have limited scope to interfere in transfer matters, except in cases involving mala fide intent, violation of rules or lack of jurisdiction.

The petitioner, appointed under the Rehbar-e-Taleem scheme in a remote part of Anantnag, had cited medical reasons and her spouse’s posting in Srinagar to seek relocation. 

However, the tribunal noted she had been formally relieved from a temporary deployment in Srinagar in 2018 and directed to return to her original posting.

It also raised questions over her continued presence in a Srinagar school, citing lack of clarity on the authority permitting it.

Highlighting the broader impact, the tribunal said a school in Anantnag had remained without a teacher for nearly nine years due to such practices, affecting students in the area.

While acknowledging personal hardships, the bench said administrative and public interest –particularly children’s right to education – must take precedence.

The tribunal dismissed the plea but allowed the petitioner to approach the competent authority for relief. 

It also directed the education department to conduct periodic reviews and ensure strict compliance with transfer orders to prevent disruption in remote schools.