ATD Controversy in Poonch: Committee constituted to Address Teacher Grievances

In response to the recent article titled "Annual Transfer Driver faces controversy in Poonch" published on kaangri.com on June 23, 2023, a significant development has taken place. Cheif Education Officer, Poonch under the direction of the Joint Director, School Education Department, Rajauri-Poonch (Range HQ Poonch), has initiated measures to address the concerns raised by teachers regarding the annual transfer drive. CEO Poonch, through an official order, has formed a committee tasked with examining and evaluating the grievances and suggestions put forth by teachers regarding the proposed list of transfers issued by the Directorate of School Education Jammu.

The committee, as per order number CEOP/8875-76 dated June 24, 2023, consists of three esteemed members from the education sector. Sh. Mukthar Ahmed, Principal HSS (B) Surankote, Sh. Surinder Kumar, Principal HSS Loran, and Mrs. Anjuman Shaheen, Principal HSS (G) Poonch, have been entrusted with the responsibility of evaluating the grievances raised by the teachers. This committee is the sole body constituted in the entire Jammu and Kashmir region to specifically address the concerns of teachers related to the transfer process.

The transfer drive has generated confusion and raised several important questions among teachers. One of the primary concerns expressed by teachers is the lack of proper demarcation of zones. This ambiguity has resulted in confusion regarding the eligibility criteria and selection process for transfers. Additionally, teachers have voiced their dismay over the fact that some individuals who have overstayed their tenure were not transferred, while others who applied for transfers were not considered.

Another point of contention lies in the discrepancy between the number of teachers who applied for transfers and the number actually considered for relocation. Out of the 1363 teachers who applied for transfers, only 235 were included in the final list. This has led to a sense of dissatisfaction and raised questions about the transparency and fairness of the selection process. The reasons behind the exclusion of a significant number of applicants from the transfer list remain unclear, further fueling the teachers' concerns.

The formation of the committee offers a glimmer of hope for the affected teachers. This platform enables them to present their grievances directly to the committee members, who have been entrusted with the responsibility of thoroughly evaluating the concerns raised. It signifies an important step towards addressing the issues surrounding the annual transfer drive and ensuring that the voices of the teachers are heard and taken into account.

The controversy surrounding the annual transfer drive in Poonch has prompted the formation of a committee dedicated to addressing the grievances raised by teachers. This committee, comprising experienced educators, holds the key to resolving the confusion and concerns surrounding the transfer process. By providing an opportunity for teachers to present their grievances, the committee aims to rectify the existing issues and establish a fair and transparent system that considers the best interests of all educators. It is a crucial step towards fostering a positive and conducive educational environment in the region.

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