The long-pending 12460 assistant teacher recruitment process in Uttar Pradesh's government primary schools remains incomplete even after nearly nine years, leaving hundreds of qualified candidates in limbo. Despite two rounds of counseling, 656 posts are still vacant, and no definitive steps have been taken to fill them.

Frustrated by the ongoing delay, several candidates have taken their plea to the Supreme Court. During a hearing held on September 12, 2023, the apex court questioned the UP Basic Education Department regarding the timeline and method for filling the remaining vacancies. However, as of now, the department has failed to submit any official response or action plan.

This recruitment drive was originally launched on December 15, 2016, but ran into legal hurdles when, on April 18, 2018, the Allahabad High Court halted appointments for candidates selected in 24 "zero districts" due to procedural issues. After several rounds of legal scrutiny, the matter was resolved in a double bench ruling, following which a limited number of candidates were issued appointment letters on December 30, 2023, and January 7, 2024.

However, despite partial progress, the recruitment process remains incomplete. The 656 remaining vacancies continue to be unfilled, casting uncertainty over the futures of thousands of aspirants who have been preparing and waiting for years.

Candidates and education advocates have raised concerns over the department’s inaction and the lack of transparency in addressing the remaining posts. Many argue that the delay not only affects individual careers but also impacts the overall quality of primary education in the state.