A recent directive from the Bihar education department, instructing teachers not to publicly express grievances against office orders, has ignited strong opposition from teachers’ bodies. Described as an affront to democratic rights and freedom of expression, the order drew swift reactions, particularly from the Federation of University Teachers’ Association of Bihar (FUTAB).
The situation escalated when the department, on Wednesday, issued orders to halt the salary and pension of FUTAB working president Kanhaiya Bahadur and general secretary Sanjay Kumar, also a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC). The action was taken in response to their criticism of an order mandating college and university teachers to conduct five classes daily and remove names of students absent for more than three days.
MLC Sanjay Kumar announced plans to file a privilege notice against the pension suspension, emphasizing that the order was issued without verifying facts. He further threatened to stage a protest in front of the Chief Minister’s residence.
The CPI, Kumar’s party, which supports the Grand Alliance government led by Nitish Kumar, condemned the additional chief secretary, K K Pathak, head of the education department, accusing him of losing mental balance.
The education department contends that it does not recognize any association, warning teachers against joining them. A letter from secondary education director Kanhaiya Prasad Srivastava states that criticizing policies and expressing resentment publicly impedes the creation of an academic atmosphere, deeming it misconduct.
Higher education director Rekha Kumari urged strict action against FUTAB leaders, accusing them of unprofessional conduct and opposing efforts to improve higher education.
The All India Federation of University Teachers’ Association (AIFUCTO) has written to the Governor and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, labeling the department’s tactics as repressive and undemocratic. They seek intervention and the withdrawal of such orders.
The gag order has raised concerns among school teachers, with show cause notices being served for social media comments. This development has prompted unease among educators, and there are growing calls for a reevaluation of the department’s actions.
Rajya Sabha member Sushil Kumar criticized the situation, stating that democratic rights of teachers are being curtailed, and the education department is creating controversies instead of delivering positive outcomes.
