Editor,
The Education Department is expected to uphold transparency, meritocracy, and fairness, especially in teacher appointments. These appointments directly affect the quality of education, and any illegal practice undermines the system.
A recent case raises a serious concern: Is the commissioner of education acting under political pressure and hesitating to take action against illegal teacher appointments?
Background of the case
On 19 September, 2024, an RTI (Right to Information) application was filed regarding the illegal appointment of teachers. The RTI aimed to ensure that all appointments were made lawfully and based on merit, rather than favouritism or political influence.
A verification meeting was held on 27 June, 2025 in the chamber of the education secretary at the civil secretariat, Itanagar. The following officers were present: the education deputy secretary, education undersecretary, director of elementary education, and the joint director of elementary education.
During the meeting, the findings and supporting evidence regarding illegal appointments were formally recorded and submitted. However, despite the official submission, the education commissioner has reportedly stated that he has “no knowledge” of the matter.
This situation raises a serious question: Has political pressure prevented the commissioner from acting against illegal appointments?
Key concerns
- Fear of political influence: Hesitation to acknowledge or act on verified reports may indicate that political pressure is affecting the commissioner’s decisions.
- Accountability: Citizens expect transparency and action when evidence is provided. Ignoring illegal appointments damages public trust in the Education Department.
- Impact on education: Allowing illegal appointments to go unaddressed undermines the credibility of the system, discourages merit-based recruitment, and affects teaching quality.
Why this matters
Erosion of Public Trust: Failure to act on verified complaints signals that political connections outweigh law and merit.
Undermining citizens’ rights: RTI is a tool to demand transparency; ignoring verified reports discourages citizens from exercising their rights.
Integrity of the department: The Education Department should be independent and impartial. Any hesitation due to political pressure compromises its integrity.
Way forward
The commissioner should publicly acknowledge the findings of the verification meeting and take immediate action against illegal appointments.
Higher authorities must ensure that political influence does not prevent lawful action.
Citizens and civil society must continue to demand transparency and accountability in the appointment process.
Conclusion
The pressing question remains: Will the commissioner act against illegal teacher appointments, or is fear of political influence preventing him from doing so? The credibility of the Education Department and public trust in governance depend on a decisive and transparent response.
Illegal appointments in education cannot be ignored – they affect the careers of deserving candidates, the quality of education, and the reputation of the department itself. Action must be taken, and justice must prevail.
Aman Bagang