Telangana: Female PETs in Gurukula Institutions Demand Transfer to Girls’ Schools

Hyderabad: The allocation of female physical education teachers (PETs) in gurukula institutions has become a contentious issue, with many teachers demanding transfers from boys’ schools to girls’ institutions.

A formal representation, led by Srinivas Mudavat, has been submitted to the Telangana Public Service Commission (TGPSC), urging it to reconsider the current placements and reallocate institutions, particularly in the light of recent relinquishments.

According to Srinivas, while the TGPSC sought candidates' preferences for educational institutions via web-options, many female candidates found themselves placed in boys' schools, which was not their first choice.

Lavanya K., a candidate, said that the allotment process, though conducted as per the commission’s laid-out system, has led to considerable dissatisfaction among the candidates.

"We are ready to serve in any institution, but it's unfair that many female teachers are placed in boys' schools when their preferences were otherwise," she said.

Another female PET teacher shared her frustration: "I had hoped to be placed in a girls' school closer to my home, especially since many posts were reserved for women in these institutions. Being sent to a boys' school has not only been uncomfortable but also adds to my family responsibilities."

Srinivas urged the commission to use the "relinquishment option" as a means to revise the allotments.

"It should consider the candidates' preferences again, especially after the relinquishments. It would benefit not just the teachers but also improve their enthusiasm and commitment to the job, knowing they’re closer to home and their families," he said.

The delays in addressing these requests have added to the growing frustration.

"Even a small change takes weeks and the process of finalising allotments has been unnecessarily dragged," said candidate Mariamma V.

In its response, a TGPSC official had reportedly told them, "Many didn’t even get these jobs. Be happy you got one."

This dismissive attitude has deepened the teachers’ resolve to have their grievances addressed.

"This isn’t just about following rules. It's about acknowledging the challenges faced by women who need to balance work and home. I hope the commission will act not just as a matter of right but also on humanitarian grounds," a teacher said.