Hyderabad: The TRS government is thinking of disbanding around 42 teacher unions and instead have just a single union to represent grievances to the government. But the one union is likely to be controlled by the TRS.
Teachers have a large voter base and controlling them through a single group could be beneficial for the government.
Deputy Chief Minister Kadiam Srihari has time and again lashed out at representatives of teacher unions saying that they are engaged only in lobbying and are doing nothing to improve conditions in government schools.
He also questioned the need for 42 teachers’ unions. All recognised uni-on representatives enjoy privileges and don’t even have to teach at school. Some of them receive salaries but haven’t taught for years together.
But government sources said the rationale behind having just one teachers’ union is to make sure there are no voices of dissent.
The government is considering having an RTC sort of union where there are elections through panels or just recognising the existing TRS affiliated union as the only recognised teachers’ union in the state.
“It is true that there is no need for so many unions and it would be the right move to withdraw their privileges. But it also makes political sense to have just one union and then control it completely,” a senior official in Telan-gana State education ministry said.
However, the TRS government is treading cautiously on this as it is easier said than done.
Deputy Chief Minister Kadiam Srihari said the government has not taken a decision on this but will consult all stakeholders and MLCs before a final decision is taken.
