THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Director of Public Education retracted the controversial directive to establish a mid-day meal protection committee by opting for interest-free loans from citizens for the school meal scheme. This move came as a response to a petition before the High Court seeking exemption for headteachers from mid-day meal responsibilities. Teachers' unions had strongly opposed the directive, claiming it would compel head teachers to seek financial support publicly. Following the teachers' decision to contest the order in court, the directive was withdrawn within two days.

The revised proposal outlined the formation of the mid-day meal protection committee by the end of this month, comprising ward member guardians with the head teacher as the convener. The committee would consist of eight members, including the PTA president, manager, and an alumni association representative. The circular emphasized the committee's role in collecting maximum contributions, stating that in case of funding delays, the committee would ensure food provision.

The plan involved seeking interest-free financial aid from parents, alumni, and civic leaders. It assured that the head teacher would repay the borrowed funds as soon as official funds became available. However, opposition groups are criticizing the government, alleging an attempt to withdraw support from the project. Earlier, after the High Court intervened, the government settled the outstanding mid-day meal dues until September. Despite the central-state dispute over funds, the Director of Public Education issued the order to establish the committee.