In an unexpected turn of events, school teachers across India have been caught up in a debate over their role in managing stray dogs on school premises. This furor began following a Supreme Court order aimed at improving safety in institutional areas where stray dogs roam freely.
The Ministry's instructions, followed by circulars from the CBSE and the Delhi Department of Education, outlined a structured approach to managing stray dogs. Unfortunately, this was misconstrued online, with viral claims that teachers were being directed to count stray dogs, leading to confusion and concern. To make matters worse, police intervention and a suspension stirred emotions further.
Teachers have expressed their frustration, arguing that their primary responsibility is educating students, not managing stray animals. The controversial decision to assign them as 'nodal officers' for coordinating stray-dog management has not been well-received, with educators highlighting that it distracts from their core duties and adds unnecessary stress.
Meanwhile, in Mumbai, teachers are resisting similar roles being imposed on them. The broader teaching community is rallying together, demanding that authorities reconsider these mandates and explore alternative solutions that do not impinge on educators' responsibilities. As this issue continues to evolve, the focus remains on finding a balance that ensures student safety without overburdening teachers.
