Dhaka, Nov. 5 -- Rights group Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has criticised the government's decision to scrap the recruitment of music and physical education teachers in government primary schools, calling it a reflection of a "lack of liberal outlook".

Expressing concern, the organisation said the move was an "unfortunate and regressive step" that would hinder the improvement of education quality and the nurturing of human values.

In a media statement on Wednesday, ASK said: "At first glance, the government's explanation may appear rational, but in reality, this decision seems to stem more from political pressure than from any lack of planning."

On Aug 28, a gazette notification was issued introducing new recruitment rules for government ...