Presence and punctuality of teachers is crucial to the fundamental right of education

Allahabad High Court Directs State to Ensure Teacher Attendance in Primary Schools. Indra Devi's Petition Highlights Critical Need for Teacher Punctuality to Uphold Children's Right to Education

The Allahabad High Court, presided over by Justice Praveen Kumar Giri, has issued a significant ruling emphasizing the importance of teacher attendance and punctuality in primary educational institutions across Uttar Pradesh. The judgment comes in response to a writ petition filed by Indra Devi, challenging her suspension by the District Basic Education Officer, Banda.

In the landmark decision, the court underscored the fundamental right to education as enshrined in the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009. The absence of teachers in schools, it stated, disproportionately impacts students from disadvantaged backgrounds, inhibiting their academic achievement and violating their constitutional rights under Article 14.

Justice Giri directed state authorities to formulate and implement rules ensuring teachers' presence during designated teaching periods. The judgment highlighted the State Government's initiatives, such as digital attendance systems and the formation of Task Forces at district and block levels, aimed at monitoring and ensuring quality education. However, the court noted the need for effective implementation of these policies to address the prevalent issue of teacher absenteeism.

The court's ruling also addressed the conduct expected of teachers, emphasizing self-discipline and the need for them to view their profession as a pious obligation rather than merely a job. The judgment recognized the burden placed on other teachers due to absenteeism, which disrupts normal school functioning and impacts students' education.

Justice Giri called upon the Chief Secretary and other high-ranking officials of the Uttar Pradesh Government to establish rules ensuring teacher attendance from the beginning to the end of teaching periods. The court's decision aims to protect the fundamental rights of children, particularly those from rural and impoverished backgrounds, ensuring they receive uninterrupted and quality education.

The case is set to be reviewed further on October 30, 2025, with instructions sought from concerned authorities to address the issues raised in Indra Devi's petition.

Bottom Line:

The presence and punctuality of teachers in primary educational institutions are crucial to the fundamental right of education for children, particularly those from poor and rural backgrounds.

Statutory provision(s): Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, Article 14 of the Constitution of India

Indra Devi v. State of U.P., (Allahabad) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2796436