Orissa High Court Directs Preparation of Second Merit List for 4,000 Junior Teachers’ Posts

Bhubaneswar: In a significant judicial development, the Orissa High Court today directed the preparation of a second merit list to fill the remaining 4,000 junior teachers’ posts lying vacant across the state.

The High Court issued this order after hearing a petition filed by aspirants who were previously denied appointment despite being eligible under the reduced cut-off criteria. The court emphasized that a new cut-off mark should be established, and a second merit list should be issued for the vacant posts.

Initially, the Odisha School Education Programme Authority (OSEPA) had issued a notification to fill 20,000 junior teachers’ positions in the state. Candidates were selected following a rigorous selection process. However, the process faced several disputes, leading to delays and legal challenges. Eventually, the High Court intervened, directing the reduction of the cut-off mark to ensure the appointment of eligible candidates.

Despite appointments being made for 20,000 to 16,000 posts, approximately 4,000 posts remain vacant. The candidates who were denied appointments in this phase approached the High Court, requesting the filling of these remaining vacancies.

In its ruling, the High Court acknowledged the necessity of addressing the backlog and ensuring that deserving candidates are considered for the vacant posts. The decision marks a crucial step towards completing the recruitment process and providing equal opportunities for all eligible candidates.