Akola: A major irregularity has surfaced in the inter-district teacher transfer process of Akola Zilla Parishad education department, with 268 teachers found to have allegedly used fake or doubtful certificates to secure transfers. The development has triggered concern across the district, and nearly 300 individuals, including teachers and suspected facilitators, are now under scanner for possible disciplinary action.Following complaints, the administration initiated a three-tier inquiry at the panchayat samiti level. Preliminary findings indicate discrepancies in documents submitted under disability quota, as well as other special categories. An in-charge block education officer (BEO) Dinesh Dutonde is among the five officials suspended for alleged negligence and procedural lapses so far.According to officials, some teachers were suspected of submitting incorrect information to avail benefits under the disability category. In other cases, claims were made under the quota for deserted or single woman who furnished distorted supporting documents including divorce-related claims. There are also instances over suspected alterations about residential details to gain advantage under distance-based transfer norms.The inquiry has pointed to gaps in document verification with several reports found to be incomplete or inconsistent. This reportedly allowed ineligible candidates to be considered during the transfer process. Officials are now reviewing the entire procedure to identify accountability at multiple levels.While the exact scale is yet to be determined, authorities are also examining whether there was any financial irregularity or organised nexus facilitating the alleged manipulation of records though there is no official confirmation about this so far.ZP CEO Anita Meshram stated that a detailed investigation is underway. She added that strict action will be taken against those found guilty, in accordance with rules.
