Dozens of private schools in Kashmir are being found operational on the eve of official holidays, defying government regulations.
This blatant disregard for official holidays has become a recurring issue, with teachers alleging they are forced to report to work even on designated days off.
Teachers from various schools revealed to Kashmir News Trust that they are directed to attend work on official holidays, citing instances like the recent Sunday when they were compelled to collect fees from parents in exchange for unit test results. This, they claim, amounts to sheer harassment by school authorities.
“We barely enjoy any official holiday,” said a teacher, requesting anonymity. Last Sunday, all teachers were directed to report to work. The day was fixed to extract fees from parents in exchange for unit test results.”
Ground reports confirmed that dozens of schools were functional on the eve of the Eid-e-Milad holiday.
The Jammu Kashmir School Education Act 2002 outlines proper guidelines for private schools. However, the lack of effective enforcement enables these institutions to disregard rules with impunity.
Moreover, expected to address such concerns, the Private Schools Association seems more inclined to protect school interests than to advocate for teachers’ rights. This has led to widespread frustration among educators.
“The government’s inaction has further exacerbated the issue. Despite complaints, no concrete measures have been taken to hold offending schools accountable,” said a visibly frustrated lady teacher from Srinagar outskirts.
The silence of the authorities has emboldened private schools to continue violating government rules, exploiting teachers and parents.
“Unfortunately, private schools are violating government rules with impunity,” said a concerned parent adding that the government must intervene to safeguard the rights of teachers and children. [KNT]