Early Times Report
Jammu, Aug 4: In response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by the All Jammu, Kashmir & Ladakh Teachers Federation, the Division Bench of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh High Court, comprising Chief Justice N Kotishwar Singh and Justice Wasim Sadiq Nargal, directed the Union Territory of Ladakh to take immediate action for improving student-teacher ratios in schools and upgrading school infrastructure without discrimination.
The PIL seeks the framing of a policy to maintain an appropriate student-teacher ratio in schools and its diligent implementation to enhance the quality of education in the region. The Court observed that while the scope of the matter is vast, certain aspects require urgent attention from the concerned authorities.
During the hearing, the Court noted that a status report from the Project Director, Samagra Shiksha, Jammu and Kashmir, highlighted works being executed and completed in various schools. The report mentioned the progress in the construction of boys and girls toilets, as well as the construction of boundary walls in schools.
However, the Court expressed concern about the works that are still in progress and directed the administration to expedite their completion within one month. The completion of toilets for boys and girls and the construction of boundary walls are essential for the smooth functioning of schools.
The Court also sought detailed information on the progress and completion timelines for the mentioned works in the status report. Additionally, the administration was asked to provide information on steps taken for land acquisition, including compulsory acquisition, where necessary, to ensure proper functioning of schools in both Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
The Division Bench emphasized the importance of improving infrastructure facilities in primary and secondary schools, both in urban and rural areas, and stressed the significance of maintaining an appropriate student-teacher ratio for an enhanced learning environment.
The Court has directed DSGI Vishal Sharma, representing the Union Territory of Ladakh, to file an affidavit indicating the steps taken for improvement of schools in Ladakh before the next date of hearing. The PIL aims to promote equal and quality education for all students, fostering a conducive learning environment across the region. |
