The Allahabad High Court has directed the verification of educational qualifications and appointment documents of teachers working in Uttar Pradesh’s government-run council schools for Classes 1 to 8. The court has ordered teachers to submit their appointment letters and educational certificates to the offices of their respective District Basic Education Officers (BSAs) within one week. Senior officials from the Education Department and the Special Task Force (STF) will supervise the verification process.

Affidavit Required Regarding Family Members in Education Department
The court has also directed teachers to submit affidavits disclosing whether any member of their family or relatives is currently serving, or has retired, from a position equivalent to BSA or higher. The BSAs will compile records of the submitted documents and forward them to the STF for scrutiny.

During the investigation, cases have reportedly emerged in which 10 or more individuals allegedly secured teaching jobs using the same educational certificate. The verification drive aims to identify suspected irregularities in recruitment and establish the authenticity of teachers’ qualifications.

Order Passed During Hearing of Kusumlata’s Petition
Justice Vinod Diwakar passed the order while hearing a petition filed by Kusumlata from Sant Kabir Nagar. She had sought approval of her appointment and the release of her salary.

According to the information presented during the proceedings, an STF investigation allegedly found that the petitioner had used educational documents belonging to another teacher employed in Gorakhpur. It was also reported that she did not appear before the STF despite being called for verification. These allegations are part of the ongoing legal proceedings.

Compliance Report Due on November 4
The High Court has directed the concerned authorities to submit a compliance report at the next hearing scheduled for November 4. It indicated that if fraudulent appointments are established, the authorities may consider cancelling those appointments, recovering salaries in accordance with applicable rules, and initiating disciplinary or criminal proceedings against officials found responsible.

Court Emphasises the Importance of Qualified Teachers
The court observed that providing school buildings, textbooks, uniforms and midday meals alone is not enough to ensure quality education. It stressed that government schools also require qualified, responsible and committed teachers.

The court highlighted the importance of teachers attending school regularly, teaching effectively, showing patience towards children and treating every student equally, regardless of caste, economic status or social background. The verification process is expected to examine whether appointments comply with the applicable recruitment requirements.