Supreme Court Recognizes Equivalence of Diplomas for Art & Craft Teacher Recruitment in Haryana

In a significant decision, the Supreme Court of India has allowed the review petitions challenging the finding of non-equivalence of qualifications for the recruitment of Art & Craft Teachers in Haryana. The judgment, delivered by Justice Sanjay Kumar, highlights the recognition of the Diploma in Art & Craft from Kurukshetra University as an equivalent qualification to the Diploma in Art & Craft from the Haryana Industrial Training Department.

The review petitions were filed by a group of candidates who had obtained Diplomas in Art & Craft from Kurukshetra University and were aggrieved by the earlier finding of non-equivalence. The Government of Haryana, in a notable change of stance, expressed its willingness to accept the Diploma from Kurukshetra University as equivalent to the one offered by the Industrial Training Department.

The Supreme Court took into account the certification provided by Kurukshetra University, stating that a Standing Committee had examined the matter and recommended treating both courses as equivalent for all purposes. Consequently, the Court allowed the review petitions and directed the government to accommodate the candidates with Diplomas from Kurukshetra University who were included in the selection list.

To facilitate this accommodation, the government decided to convert 178 posts of TGT Art to the post of Art & Craft Teacher (Diminishing Cadre). This step was taken to ensure that the candidates with Diplomas from Kurukshetra University could be appointed without affecting the previous appointees or their seniority.

The Supreme Court emphasized that the appointments should be made strictly based on the merit ranking from the selection list dated 14.11.2021. The vacant posts notified under Advertisement No. 6/2006, excluding the converted posts, will be available for the new appointments. The process is expected to be completed within two months from the date of the judgment.

The Court also clarified that the government's decision to convert the posts should not be treated as a precedent for future cases. Additionally, there shall be no order as to costs in this matter.

This judgment brings relief to the review petitioners and others in a similar situation, as their Diplomas from Kurukshetra University are now recognized as equivalent qualifications. It also underscores the importance of ensuring fairness and equal opportunities in the recruitment process, enabling deserving candidates to be considered for the vacant positions.

Date of Decision: July 3, 2023

NEERAJ KUMAR & ANR. vs STATE OF HARYANA & ORS.