MAPUSA
A disturbing case of political harassment involving a government schoolteacher has emerged from the Tivim constituency, raising serious concerns about the treatment of educators under the State’s administration.
Residents are questioning whether the government’s commitment to the dignity of women and the success of its flagship Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan is genuine, given the current state of affairs.
According to reliable sources, the harassment began soon after a change in political power within a local panchayat in the Tivim constituency. The affected teacher, who is reportedly related to a panchayat member opposing the ruling party, has allegedly been targeted as part of a political vendetta.
In what appears to be an act of retribution, the teacher was initially transferred to a school in the Ponda taluka.
Despite the challenge of travelling 40“50 kms daily, the teacher continued to perform her duties with dedication. Recently, she was transferred back to the Bardez taluka, but this transfer has reportedly been stalled without justification.
Locals believe the obstruction is politically motivated and have expressed outrage at the mental and professional toll such actions take on dedicated educators.
“If teachers are being subjected to this kind of mental harassment for political reasons, how can we expect them to focus on educating our children?” questioned one concerned parent, requesting anonymity for obvious reasons.
Citizens argue that such political interference not only undermines the morale of teachers but also directly affects the quality of education.
They have called on the State government to ensure that educators are protected from political vendettas and treated with the dignity and respect their profession demands.
The residents of Tivim are urging immediate intervention and systemic safeguards to prevent similar incidents in the future, emphasising that a knowledgeable and cultured future generation can only be built when teachers are empowered “ not victimised.
