Jairam Thakur slams government over Guest Teacher Policy
Former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur has strongly condemned the Himachal Pradesh government for introducing the controversial Guest Teacher Policy, which employs teachers on an hourly basis. Calling it a betrayal of the youth and a threat to the education system, Thakur criticized the government for going back on its promises.
Speaking from Shimla, Thakur reminded the public that key leaders, including the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and Education Minister, had previously assured that no such policy would be implemented. “This policy is a complete reversal of their commitments. It clearly shows the government’s disregard for the future of the youth and education in the state,” he stated.
Enrollment in Government Schools Drops Sharply
Thakur blamed the government’s poor handling of education for a sharp decline in the enrollment rate in government schools. “Under the BJP government, 59% of students attended government schools. That number has now dropped to 32% because the current administration has failed to gain the trust of parents,” he asserted.
He also criticized the Congress government for failing to fulfill its pre-election promises. “They guaranteed one lakh jobs annually, but instead of offering secure, pensionable jobs, they are resorting to hourly-based hiring for teachers. This is nothing short of deceit,” Thakur said.
Rising Concerns Over Education Standards
The Leader of Opposition expressed deep concern over increasing school dropout rates and the deteriorating quality of education. “Education doesn’t seem to be a priority for this government. Parents are losing faith in the system, leading them to avoid government schools altogether,” he remarked.
Policy Sparks Heated Debate
Thakur’s sharp criticism has reignited the debate over the Guest Teacher Policy. Critics argue that the move could further weaken the state’s fragile education system and have called on the government to abandon the policy in favor of meaningful reforms that support both students and educators.
