GANGTOK: In a press statement, the Citizen Action Party (CAP)- Sikkim has said it is deeply concerned about the recent mass transfer of primary teachers by the Education department, Government of Sikkim, in the middle of the academic session of 2024.
This decision has raised significant questions about the present government’s commitment to the education system, particularly at the primary level, which is already grappling with several challenges, said the CAP Sikkim.
The opposition party said orders for the transfer of 59 primary teachers were issued on September 9.
CAP Sikkim spokesperson Albert Gurung said: “It is important to remind the people of Sikkim that the SKM party, while in opposition, had vehemently opposed the practice of transferring teachers in the middle of the academic session. However, today, as the ruling party, it is following the same approach that it once criticized. This reversal of stance exposes the government’s lack of concern for the quality of education in the state and highlights its inconsistency in policy-making. “
“At a time when the Education Department is facing serious questions regarding low enrollment at the primary level and the mass deputation of primary teachers to other departments, the decision to transfer teachers at such a crucial time reflects a failure of leadership.”
According to CAP Sikkim, the Education Department has also acted inhumane and clueless by issuing transfer order to deceased teacher Lt. Kharga Bahadur Karkee, PRT Sadam SSS who recently passed away. This action reflects how poorly the government institutions are being managed in Sikkim and is huge disrespect towards teaching fraternity of Sikkim particularly at the time when the state is still in the mood of Teachers Day celebrations, said the opposition party.
The situation is exacerbated by the fact that the SKM party had promised to frame a clear transfer policy to prevent such disruptions in the academic process, a promise that is yet to be fulfilled, said the CAP Sikkim.
“The Citizen Action Party is particularly disappointed with the role of Shri Raju Basnett, the current Minister of Education, who, despite his vast experience as a seasoned bureaucrat, has sanctioned these transfers without considering the adverse effects on students, especially in rural areas. Such decisions, made without any regard for the impact on the education of young children, are deeply concerning and the person heading the department seems totally unaware of the developments taking place around him,” said Gurung in his press statement.
“CAP- Sikkim firmly believes that these abrupt transfers are nothing but a victimization policy of the current government, led by Shri Prem Singh Tamang. This government’s action seems to be more about punishing certain individuals rather than focusing on the welfare of the students and the future of education in Sikkim,” said the CAP Sikkim spokeperson.
The Citizen Action Party demanded the immediate withdrawal of this mass transfer of teachers, especially at this critical time in the academic calendar.
“Such actions will not contribute to the vision of “Sunaulo Sikkim, Samriddh Sikkim” (Golden Sikkim, Prosperous Sikkim). Instead, they will create further disillusionment among students, parents, and teachers, harming the state’s educational foundations,” said the party.
- SA Report
