In Panaji, the high court of Bombay at Goa has instructed the authorities to begin the process of regular promotion to fill the vacant principal position at Shree Ganesh Higher Secondary School, Ganeshpuri-Mapusa promptly. This directive came after the previous principal retired on July 31. The court emphasized that the promotion process should be completed within two months. The bench, consisting of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice M S Karnik, also recommended appointing Shilpa Pai Panandikar as the acting principal based on seniority. Shilpa had challenged the decision to appoint Sandeep V Palni as the acting principal in a petition to the court. The court stressed that seniority should be a significant factor in determining who holds the acting principal position unless there are specific reasons to suggest otherwise. The argument that Palni's science background made him more suitable for the role was deemed inadequate by the court."It is essential to prioritize the principle of seniority when assigning officiating duties, including the role of a principal. Disregarding the seniority of a teacher for such assignments is not acceptable. Shilpa, who sought the officiating charge of principal, sought legal recourse through her advocate, senior counsel S D Lotlikar. The High Court emphasized the importance of adhering to Rule 86 of the Goa Education Rules 1986, which dictates that vacancies for principal positions in higher secondary schools should be filled through promotion. Furthermore, managements are advised to consider the most senior teacher for these positions."