SSC SLST 10 Marks for Experience in Teacher Recruitment: Strong Arguments by Lawyers in High Court!

Teaching Experience Marks: A crucial hearing was held at the Calcutta High Court regarding the 10 marks allocated for experience in the teacher recruitment process, leading to intense arguments between lawyers from both sides. The arguments were presented on behalf of the untrained teachers supporting the marks and the petitioners opposing it. The next hearing for this high-stakes case has been scheduled for November 12th.

At the beginning of the hearing, senior advocate Anindo Kumar Mitra argued on behalf of the untrained teachers. He presented a simple yet powerful analogy to emphasize the importance of experience. According to him, “A football player with club experience is the one who gets a chance to play for the Indian team. Similarly, in the teaching profession, experience must be given its due weightage.” He argued that denying experienced candidates their advantage just because freshers might lose out is unfair. He also pointed out that the petitioners did not challenge the notification initially, took the exam, and are only now raising this issue, which is inappropriate.

Technical Points and Supreme Court Orders

Advocate Pathik Dhar introduced a technical dimension to the case. Countering Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya’s “null and void” argument, he stated that this term doesn’t apply here. This is because the court has already reinstated some teachers from the ‘first service’ and directed the continuation of their seniority. These teachers have already gathered real-world experience, something a fresher candidate lacks.

He asserted, “While academic qualification is the first criterion, 8-10 years of experience certainly puts a candidate ahead.” He cited an old Supreme Court order which clearly states that experienced candidates can be given preference and that this does not violate Article 14 of the Constitution.

The Commission’s Stance and Next Steps

Representing the commission, advocate Bishwajit Bhattacharya questioned the timing of the petition. He asked why the petitioners have approached the court so late when the recruitment process is nearing completion. Referring to the ‘Arunima Pal’ case, he mentioned that this issue has already been decided upon.

During the hearing, lawyers from various parties presented their arguments. The advocate for the ‘Menuka Group’ stated that this is a “Policy Decision” and not a matter for judicial intervention. The education department has the right to make such policy decisions.

After hearing arguments from all sides, the court has scheduled the next hearing for November 12th. It is expected that advocate Kalyan Banerjee will also present his arguments on that day. Overall, this legal battle over the 10 marks for experience is at a critical juncture, and thousands of job aspirants are eagerly awaiting the final verdict.