KATHMANDU: Minister for Education, Science and Technology, Mahabir Pun, has urged teachers and employees of educational institutions to maintain a non-political nature.

In a press statement issued Sunday, the Minister said while teachers have the right to form trade unions for collective representation and bargaining, such organizations should not be affiliated with any political party, thereby remaining non-political. He reminded that he would not recognize any teachers’ trade unions associated with specific political parties.

The Minister further said he had received complaints from various sources alleging that teachers, including those from universities, were engaging in political activities in violation of the code of conduct, which he argued, would negatively affect the quality of education.

He also warned that teachers’ involvement in political activities contrary to the code of conduct is punishable under the law.