The Newz Radar
Dharamshala: The Sanskrit and Culture Preservation Association in Himachal Pradesh has vehemently opposed the government’s recent decision to enforce Trained Graduate Teacher (TGT) recruitment rules on Shastris (traditional scholars). Shastri Sanrakshan Sangh’s district president, Acharya Sanjeev Sharma, expressed discontent, highlighting the unjust treatment of Shastris who, for the past two decades, have struggled with meager employment opportunities.
The government’s announcement to fill Shastri positions through the Central Teacher Eligibility Test(CTET) has stirred dissatisfaction in the scholarly community. Shastris, who specialise in the in-depth study of 16 sacraments, find the move unfair as it neglects the existing B.Ed and other educational provisions. Despite the issuance of a new ordinance on October 11 regarding Shastri recruitment and promotion rules, the government insists on applying TGT norms to the Shastri cadre.
This decision has left every Shastri disheartened, as being labeled as TGT (Trained Graduate Teacher) fails to capture the essence of their extensive knowledge. Scholars argue that if amendments are necessary, a committee should be formed, including Sanskrit educators, to avoid creating situations devoid of logical reasoning and opposition.
Acharya Sanjeev highlighted the government’s contradictory stance, promoting Sanskrit as a second language while simultaneously treating scholars unfairly. Although the matter is sub judice in the High Court, failure to address their concerns might force Shastris to take drastic measures in the future.
For the past two decades, Shastri scholars have struggled to secure meaningful employment, relying on odd jobs like MNREGA, labour work, religious ceremonies, and minimal wages in private schools, highlighting the need for comprehensive reform in the education sector.
