Kochi | June 18, 2025
In a significant judicial intervention, the Kerala High Court has questioned the Director General of Education (DGE) over alleged non-meritorious appointments in government-aided schools across the state. The court has sought a detailed explanation regarding the existing selection mechanism, highlighting deep concerns over the lack of transparency and possible manipulation in the hiring process.
The directive was issued by Justice Devan Ramachandran, who was hearing a plea by a group of school teachers challenging salary deductions under the National Pension Scheme. During proceedings, the judge expanded the scope of inquiry, pointing to broader concerns about how teachers are selected in aided institutions.
“The court cannot remain a silent spectator when public appointments, funded by public money, are seemingly being made without merit or transparency,” Justice Ramachandran observed.
Key Issues Raised By The Court:
• No formal process: Appointments are reportedly made without public notifications or interviews.
• Managerial dominance: School managers allegedly have unchecked powers in choosing candidates, raising fears of nepotism.
• Government role unclear: The court asked whether the state has any oversight in the selection process.
The bench has now directed the DGE to submit a sworn affidavit within 7 days, detailing:
• Whether any selection panel exists
• How vacancies are notified
• The role (if any) of the state in monitoring appointments
• Measures taken to ensure merit-based recruitment
The matter has been posted for further hearing on June 20, 2025, with the court cautioning that failure to provide the required information may result in the personal appearance of the DGE and other officials.
Kerala’s aided schools receive government grants for operations and salaries, but hiring is controlled by private school managements. This dual structure has long been criticised for allowing opaque and politically influenced recruitments undermining educational quality and public trust.
The High Court’s intervention could potentially lead to a structural overhaul, introducing mandatory public notification, competitive selection, and clearer government supervision.
