📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Prime Minister's Office
Education
West Bengal to bar government teachers from political activities, says Suvendu Adhikari
✍️ The Indian Express
🗓 29 Oct 2026, 11:01 AM
👁 28
State minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that teachers employed by the West Bengal government will be prohibited from taking part in any political activities, aiming to keep the education system neutral.
Suvendu Adhikari, a senior minister in the West Bengal government, disclosed that a new directive will prevent teachers hired by the state from engaging in any political work. The move is presented as an effort to maintain the impartiality of public education and to avoid conflicts of interest that could arise from teachers holding party positions or campaigning.
According to the announcement, the rule will apply to all government‑run schools and colleges across the state. Officials are expected to issue detailed guidelines within the next few weeks, outlining the scope of the prohibition, monitoring mechanisms, and penalties for violations. The policy does not affect teachers' personal voting rights but restricts active participation in party meetings, rallies, or election campaigning while in service.
Education experts have welcomed the step, noting that political neutrality among teachers can foster a more focused learning environment. However, opposition parties have warned that the measure could be used to curb dissent and limit the democratic rights of public servants. The government has said it will ensure the rule is implemented fairly and transparently.
According to the announcement, the rule will apply to all government‑run schools and colleges across the state. Officials are expected to issue detailed guidelines within the next few weeks, outlining the scope of the prohibition, monitoring mechanisms, and penalties for violations. The policy does not affect teachers' personal voting rights but restricts active participation in party meetings, rallies, or election campaigning while in service.
Education experts have welcomed the step, noting that political neutrality among teachers can foster a more focused learning environment. However, opposition parties have warned that the measure could be used to curb dissent and limit the democratic rights of public servants. The government has said it will ensure the rule is implemented fairly and transparently.