Rajasthan Teachers to Stage Statewide Protest Over Reduced Summer Vacations
Teachers' associations across Rajasthan are set to launch a statewide protest on Tuesday, opposing the government's decision to cut summer vacations by 10 days this year. As part of the demonstration, various teachers' bodies will submit memorandums addressed to the education minister through district collectors in all regions of the state.
Changes in Academic Calendar and Holiday Policies
According to the academic calendar released by the education department, summer vacations for this year will now span from May 17 to June 21, a reduction from the previously scheduled end date of June 30. Additionally, the department has decreased principals' discretionary holidays from two days to just one, further tightening leave policies for educational staff.
Voices of Protest from Teacher Leaders
Ranjit Meena, State President of the Rajasthan Shikshak Sangh Ekikrit, criticized the government's move, stating, "Instead of addressing critical issues like filling vacant teaching posts and establishing a proper transfer policy, the government's decision to curtail holidays highlights administrative failure. If holidays are reduced, teachers should be compensated with privilege leave."
Teachers have expressed frustration, arguing that despite taking on additional responsibilities such as SIR duties alongside regular classroom teaching and ensuring the academic session commenced on April 1, their demands remain unmet.
Unilateral Decision Sparks Outrage
Mohar Singh, State President of the Rajasthan Elementary Secondary Teachers Association, revealed that during a meeting with the education minister on March 6, various teachers' organizations had strongly protested the proposed reduction in summer vacations. "Despite our objections, the department has unilaterally implemented the holiday cut. Reopening schools earlier violates service rules and disrupts scheduled vacations. If date changes are necessary, compensatory or alternative leave should be provided," he emphasized.
Calls for Standardization and Fair Treatment
Teachers have also suggested that if the government deems their leave entitlement excessive compared to other departments, the holiday schedule across all government schools should be standardized to align with that of other government offices. This proposal aims to ensure equitable treatment and address concerns over holiday disparities.
The protest underscores growing tensions between educators and the administration over holiday policies, with teachers demanding fair compensation and adherence to service regulations.
