Introduction:

In the case of Neeraj Bhardwaj alias Neeraj versus the State of Haryana and Others, the Punjab & Haryana High Court addressed the issue of professors teaching without possessing the minimum qualifications prescribed by the University Grants Commission (UGC). The court emphasized the importance of ensuring that educators meet the necessary standards to provide quality education to students. The directive came in response to a batch of appeals filed against orders dismissing pleas to allow professors lacking UGC eligibility criteria to continue teaching as extension lecturers until regular appointments were made.

Arguments of Both Sides:

The appellants, represented by various advocates, sought permission for professors without UGC qualifications to continue teaching until regular selections were conducted. They argued that these professors had been working for a considerable period and should be allowed to continue until suitable replacements were found.

On the other hand, the State of Haryana, represented by its counsel, highlighted the importance of upholding educational standards and ensuring that professors meet the minimum qualifications prescribed by the UGC. They contended that allowing unqualified professors to continue teaching could compromise the quality of education provided to students.

Court’s Judgement:

The division bench of Justice Sanjeev Prakash Sharma and Justice Sudeepti Sharma reiterated the significance of qualified educators in maintaining educational standards. The court emphasized that teaching in a college is a responsible job, and professors must possess the minimum qualifications prescribed by the UGC, such as NET/Ph.D. The bench directed the Haryana Government to take steps to relieve professors who do not meet these qualifications and to advertise regular posts for qualified candidates.

While allowing eligible candidates to continue teaching until regular selections are made, the court clarified that those lacking the requisite qualifications could be disengaged by the State. Additionally, the bench instructed the State Government to initiate the selection process and issue advertisements for regular posts within six months.