The ongoing protest by primary school teachers under the banner of Prathamik Sikhyak Mahasangha at Lower PMG in Bhubaneswar entered its 59th day on Friday. The teachers have been staging demonstrations since April 8, demanding recognition of their initial contractual service period for various benefits.
Key Demands of the Protesting Teachers
Led by convenor Ramlal Patel, the teachers alleged that the first six years they spent working on contract since 2001 have been excluded from service benefits. These benefits include annual increments, grade pay, and promotion eligibility. They argued that despite discharging the same responsibilities as regular teachers, they were paid meagre salaries and denied long-term financial security.
"The government regularised our services later, but those six years have not been counted towards our tenure. It has affected our career progression and financial stability," Patel said.
Impact on Teachers' Lives
Many teachers said the exclusion of contractual years led to delayed promotions and reduced lifetime earnings. Some recounted struggling to manage household expenses, loans, and medical costs during the early years of their service. They also demanded a hike in grade pay.
The mahasangha referred to its earlier agitation held between December 5 and 9 last year, when officials reportedly assured them that their demands would be addressed. "But nothing concrete has been announced so far," Patel said.
Call for Formal Notification
The teachers have also sought a formal notification to ensure the changes are implemented. They said they would continue their peaceful protest until their demands are met.
This protest highlights the ongoing struggle for fair recognition of contractual service in the education sector, impacting thousands of teachers across the state.
