Why are college teachers given presiding duties? High Court questions EC, hearing deferred

The Calcutta High Court on Thursday expressed dissatisfaction with the Election Commission’s explanation regarding the assignment of college and university teachers as presiding officers for polling duties, and deferred the hearing to Friday. The case was filed by a section of college teachers who questioned whether such responsibilities could be assigned to them in violation of existing guidelines.

During the hearing, the petitioners argued that a 2010 guideline clearly states that Group-A or equivalent officers, including college and university teachers, should not be deployed as presiding officers except under special and unavoidable circumstances, and only with written approval from the District Election Officer. However, despite the ongoing case, several teachers across Kolkata and other districts have already received duty letters and completed training sessions for upcoming polling phases.

The court, presided over by Justice Krishna Rao, reportedly questioned the Election Commission on the circumstances under which such deployments were being made. However, the explanation provided by the Commission did not satisfy the court, prompting it to schedule a further hearing. With training for the April 29 polling phase already underway, uncertainty persists among teachers regarding whether their duties will be withdrawn if the court rules in their favour.

Teachers’ associations have alleged that the Commission has violated its own guidelines by assigning presiding officer duties to assistant and associate professors. Concerns have also been raised about administrative hierarchy, as presiding officers function under Block Development Officers, while many teachers hold equivalent or higher ranks. The issue has intensified apprehensions among educators already engaged in academic responsibilities such as examinations and evaluations.

Representatives of teachers’ bodies have further alleged misinterpretation of rules at the district level, creating confusion and pressure among faculty members. They have maintained that any deployment must strictly follow guidelines and align with the professional responsibilities of teachers. With the next hearing scheduled, the matter remains unresolved as election preparations continue.