Teachers Block National Highway in Punjab Over Compensation Demand
Teachers in Punjab staged a major protest on Sunday, blocking a key national highway. The demonstration took place near the Moga District Administrative Complex. Members of the Democratic Teachers Front led the action, with support from various farmers' and labour groups.
Highway Blockade Halts Traffic
The protesters gathered at the Moga-Ferozepur stretch of the Ludhiana-Ferozepur national highway. They brought all traffic to a complete standstill. Police officers tried to contain the teachers within a nearby grain market after a state-level rally. However, the determined protesters pushed through police barricades and reached the highway.
The blockade continued for more than one hour. District police officials eventually intervened and gave assurances to the demonstrators. They promised to arrange a meeting with either the chief minister or senior ministers to discuss the teachers' demands. Only after receiving this assurance did the protesters clear the highway and allow traffic to resume.
Compensation Demand for Deceased Teachers
The teachers are demanding substantial compensation for a tragic accident. A teacher couple died when their car plunged into a drain at Sangatpura village in Moga. The incident occurred on December 14, 2025. Jaskaran Singh, aged 47, was dropping his wife Kamaljit Kaur, aged 45, for election duty when the accident happened.
The couple leaves behind two young children. Their daughter is 14 years old and studies in Class IX. Their son is 11 years old and studies in Class VI. Teacher organizations are demanding ex-gratia compensation of Rs 2 crore for each deceased teacher. They argue that the family has suffered an irreparable loss.
Additional Demands for Children's Future
Beyond the financial compensation, teacher groups have made additional requests. They want the state government to bear all educational expenses for the couple's children. The organizations also demand assured government jobs for both children once they complete their studies.
In the weeks following the accident, teacher associations organized several candlelight marches. These events urged the state government to accept their compensation demand. The teachers have repeatedly stated that they will not accept any amount less than Rs 2 crore per person.
Unified Stand on Compensation Issue
DTF state president Digvijay Pal Sharma spoke during Sunday's protest. He emphasized that the demand for Rs 2 crore each is fully justified. Sharma pointed to the professional status of the deceased teachers and the devastating loss experienced by their family.
The teachers' fraternity across Punjab stands united on this issue. They have made it clear they will not settle for any amount lower than what they have requested. The Democratic Teachers Front maintains that the family's loss requires substantial financial support from the government.
