HC orders reinstatement of TGT teacher sacked over pregnancy leave; notice issued to Haryana govt

In the termination of service of a contractual teacher who had sought leave due to medical complications during pregnancy, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has sent a strong message to the Haryana government.

Granting interim relief, the High Court ordered the concerned authority to issue a fresh appointment letter in favour of the TGT (Science) teacher within four weeks and to ensure she resumes duty within two weeks. Justice Harpreet Singh Brar passed this interim order while hearing a petition filed by the woman teacher. The petitioner had challenged the order issued on March 16, 2026, through which her contractual appointment was terminated.

She has sought reinstatement of her service, extension of her contract period, maternity leave with salary, medical bonus, all other monetary benefits, interest, and compensation for mental and physical harassment. Senior advocate Vikas Chatrath, appearing for the petitioner, informed the court that the teacher was appointed as a TGT (Science) on March 16, 2024, at Government Senior Secondary School, Chandpur.

During her employment, she developed serious medical complications related to pregnancy, and doctors advised complete bed rest for nine months. Following this, she applied for medical leave on October 9, 2025, but instead of a decision being taken on her application, her services were terminated on March 16, 2026. She later gave birth on April 15, 2026, which clearly indicates that her request for leave was based on genuine medical circumstances.

The court was also informed that the appointment periods of other contractual TGT teachers working on the same post had been extended, while only the petitioner was removed from service. The petitioner also stated that she was not seeking salary for the period she was not on duty, and that she was now fully recovered and ready to resume service. It was further argued that regular employees are entitled to maternity leave benefits, and that her medical records also confirm her condition. The court has issued notice to the State Government, directing it to file its reply. The next hearing in the matter will be held on January 28, 2027.