Teachers in Limbo as Transfer Process Remains Incomplete

Bhubaneswar, 2nd Sept 2025:  Even as half of the current academic year has passed, the transfer process of primary teachers in Odisha has not yet begun. The School and Mass Education Department has been repeatedly changing dates, but the actual transfer process is still pending. It has now been over three months since applications were submitted, yet teachers waiting for transfers have not seen their hopes fulfilled. Many teachers are reportedly under mental stress due to the uncertainty.

On the other hand, the implementation of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list has put a halt on the transfer process, leaving teachers uncertain and anxious.

The initial notification for transfer was issued on May 14, with the application window open until May 30. A state-level committee (SLC) was supposed to make the final decision by June 3, and the transfer list was to be published on June 10. Teachers were expected to join their new schools by June 13.

Later, on May 28, the department amended the earlier notification, extending the application deadline to June 6. Still, the transfer process could not be completed within the stipulated time.

SIR Process Halts Transfers

Due to the ongoing SIR process, a ban was imposed on teacher transfers. Teachers involved as Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are essential for the voter list revision. If these teachers are transferred or their posts remain vacant, it would severely impact the SIR process. Hence, the Election Commission issued instructions not to transfer any officials involved in SIR. The Chief Secretary and School & Mass Education Department also issued orders in this regard, effectively putting the entire transfer process on hold.

Controversy Over Political Recommendations

Interestingly, at the beginning of the process, the department had transferred 15 teachers based on recommendations from MLAs and MPs. This led to strong objections from several legislators who felt it would disturb the academic environment. The matter reached the High Court, which then put a stay order on these transfers, creating further confusion for the department.

Now, the entire transfer process is stuck.

With no clear timeline from the authorities, many teacher associations are now demanding that the transfer process be completed excluding BLOs, so that at least other teachers not involved in election duties can be transferred without delay.