Punjab's government school system is experiencing a critical shortage of principals, with over 57% of positions unfilled. According to the Democratic Teachers’ Front (DTF), 1,113 of the 1,927 senior secondary schools in the state are operating without principals. In Ludhiana, 101 out of 181 sanctioned posts are vacant, resulting in a vacancy rate of 55.8%. The DTF has raised alarms about the implications of this crisis, pointing out that districts like SBS Nagar and Mansa have even higher vacancy rates. The DTF leaders argue that the government's claims of educational progress are undermined by the lack of leadership in schools. They also noted that many teachers are diverted to non-academic duties, further straining the educational framework. Education Secretary Sonali Giri confirmed that the promotion process for principals is currently on hold due to a ruling from the Punjab and Haryana High Court, with the next hearing scheduled for July. This situation has contributed to a decline in student enrollment in government schools, highlighting the urgent need for action to fill these critical positions and improve educational outcomes in the state.