Bihar’s education sector is at the center of a major political dispute after the Nitish Kumar-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government significantly reduced vacancies for the upcoming Teacher Recruitment Exam (TRE-4). This decision has triggered strong reactions from opposition parties and thousands of aspiring teachers across the state, escalating tensions ahead of the 2025 Assembly elections.
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav accused the NDA government of “betraying youth aspirations.” Yadav publicly stated that the government initially announced 127,000 posts for TRE-4 in March, then cut approximately 100,000 positions. He pledged that if the RJD is elected, his government would “immediately” restart the full TRE-4 recruitment process.
RJD’s Track Record Claims
Yadav highlighted his previous government’s performance in teacher recruitment. He asserted that during the RJD’s 17-month tenure, over 200,000 teachers were appointed through TRE-1 and TRE-2. These drives reportedly occurred without paper leaks. The process for an additional 130,000 teaching positions also began during that period.
Widespread Protests Erupt
The drastic reduction in TRE-4 vacancies ignited widespread anger and protests among teacher aspirants. Thousands demonstrated in cities, including Patna. These gatherings demand accountability and transparency from the government. Aspirants actively campaign on social media platforms like X, using “TRE-4 bhagao” to voice frustration and demand faster recruitment.
High Unemployment Fuels Political Battle
Teacher recruitment holds immense political weight in Bihar. The state grapples with a graduate unemployment rate exceeding 7 percent. Government jobs, especially teaching, are highly sought. The TRE-4 controversy impacts a large demographic of Bihar’s 15 million young voters. Political analysts see the RJD’s strong criticism as a strategic move to attract these crucial youth voters before the 2025 Assembly elections.
Public sentiment on social media reflects the discontent. One X user, tagging Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, wrote, “Where’s that tweet promising swift TRE-4? Elections are here, vacancies aren’t!” Another widely shared comment stated, “Jobs, not promises, will decide Bihar’s future this time,” underscoring the electoral significance.
Concerns Over Administrative Efficiency
Aspirants voiced concerns regarding the state government’s administrative effectiveness. The Bihar State Eligibility Test (STET) 2025 is set for October 14. Candidates allege this schedule, combined with the delayed and reduced TRE-4, indicates poor planning by the Nitish government. They argue these overlapping schedules create unnecessary hurdles and uncertainty for job seekers.
Electoral Impact Looms Large
As political parties prepare campaigns for the 2025 Assembly elections, the TRE-4 situation remains a central talking point. The government’s handling of teacher recruitment will likely influence voter decisions. The fate of thousands of young job seekers, and their confidence in government promises, will shape Bihar’s political landscape.