Punjab Teachers Stage Protest at DAC Over Mandatory TET Implementation
In a significant demonstration of dissent, government teachers in Amritsar gathered at the District Administrative Complex (DAC) to protest against the mandatory imposition of the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET). The protest, led by organizations such as the Democratic Teachers' Front (DTF) and the Government Teachers' Union, highlighted growing tensions between educators and the AAP-led Punjab government.
Teachers Decry Government Inaction and Supreme Court Mandate
The educators expressed frustration over what they described as the Punjab government's failure to introduce a Bill for teacher service security during the recent budget session. Additionally, they criticized the state for not filing a review petition in the Supreme Court, which had mandated the TET at the behest of the Central Government. During the protest, members of the DTF burned an effigy of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, symbolizing their anger and disappointment.
Allegations of Police Brutality and Unresolved Financial Issues
The teachers also condemned recent police actions during protests in Chandigarh, where water cannons, lathi-charge, and tear gas were reportedly used indiscriminately. Baljinder Singh Mann, a government school teacher from Amritsar, voiced concerns over multiple unresolved financial matters. "Despite issuing a notification for the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme, it remains unimplemented. Salary revision arrears, restoration of Punjab pay-scales, pending dearness allowance installments, and the unreleased Pay Commission report have all been neglected," he stated.
Criticism of Education Policies and Vacant Positions
Protesters lamented that the AAP government, despite its promises of a Shiksha Kranti (education revolution), has failed to fill vacant posts for principals and head teachers. They argued that this neglect exacerbates the challenges in the education sector, undermining efforts to improve teaching standards and student outcomes.
Broader Implications for Teacher Welfare and Governance
The protest underscores broader issues of teacher welfare and governance in Punjab. Educators are calling for immediate action to address their grievances, including financial security and policy reforms. The mandatory TET has become a focal point in this struggle, reflecting deeper systemic problems within the state's education framework.
As the situation unfolds, the Punjab government faces mounting pressure to engage with teacher unions and find a resolution that balances regulatory requirements with the legitimate concerns of its educators.
