Ajay Sharma
Rajouri, Nov 15: Following persistent reporting by ‘The Northlines’ on unauthorized absences among teachers in government schools across Rajouri district, the Chief Education Officer (CEO) has initiated action, reportedly scrutinizing teacher attendance records in primary schools throughout the district.
According to sources, although the CEO is responsible for overseeing school operations, there are claims that he had not visited any schools to assess the situation firsthand.
“It was only after media coverage that the CEO reached out to journalists to gather details about the schools experiencing attendance issues,” sources said, adding that several schools, particularly in Sunderbani and Lohr-Hathal, have been spotlighted for their poor teacher attendance records.
Sources revealed that many teachers arrive late—sometimes as late as noon—and leave shortly after, raising accountability concerns.
Additionally, it has been alleged that relatives of some teachers operate private schools close to government institutions, potentially undermining the public education system by diverting students from primary schools.
“Unless serious action is taken—such as merging underperforming primary schools with higher-level institutions—improvement is unlikely,” sources suggested, adding that placing primary school teachers under the oversight of senior educators from middle or high schools could boost accountability and performance.
Meanwhile, local residents are calling for immediate intervention from higher authorities, including the Commissioner Secretary and the Director of School Education, to implement stricter regulations and enhance the educational landscape in Rajouri.
