Tripura primary teachers recruited before 2010 seek exemption from TET

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, June 19, 2026

The Tripura unit of Akhil Bhartiya Rashtriya Shaikshik Mahasangh (ABRSM) has urged the Centre to provide legislative and policy protection to teachers appointed before August 23, 2010, seeking exemption from the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) requirement and safeguarding of their service benefits.

The organisation met in deputations at all the District Magistrate Office and submitted their memoranda to central government through the respective district magistrates.

In a memorandum submitted to Union Education Minister, the organisation expressed concern over the implications of the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) notification of August 23, 2010, which prescribed TET as a minimum qualification for teachers, and the subsequent legal developments following a Supreme Court judgment delivered on May 29, 2026.

The teachers' body said apprehensions had emerged among a large number of teachers appointed before the issuance of the NCTE notification regarding their service interests and future prospects.

According to the memorandum, appointments made prior to August 23, 2010, were carried out in accordance with the rules, qualifications and selection procedures that were in force at the time. It said these appointments were valid under the prevailing legal framework and should not be subjected to eligibility conditions introduced subsequently.

The organisation argued that teachers who had already entered service before the introduction of TET should not be required to meet qualifications that were not part of the recruitment process when they were appointed. It also stressed the need to recognise the experience and service rendered by such teachers over the years.

ABRSM sought protection of service-related benefits, including seniority and promotional prospects, for teachers appointed before the NCTE notification came into effect.

The memorandum also called for legislative intervention, if required, to provide permanent relief to the affected category of teachers. It urged the Centre to consider suitable amendments or special provisions to address the issue and remove uncertainty surrounding their service status.

In addition, the organisation requested the issuance of clear directions to all states and Union Territories to ensure uniform implementation and avoid confusion among teachers.

The representation maintained that Parliament and the Central Government have the authority to frame policy and legislative measures in public interest and sought a reconsideration of the retrospective application of eligibility conditions in light of principles of legal certainty and administrative fairness.

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