Sacked Teachers Protest: The streets of Kolkata are once again witnessing protests as sacked teachers have taken to Dharmatala to demand justice. Dismissed by the School Service Commission (SSC), these teachers are protesting to demand the publication of OMR sheet mirror images and their reinstatement, rejecting the option of appearing for new examinations. Their planned march to the Vidhan Sabha (State Assembly) was halted by the police. Currently, the protestors are staging a sit-in at the Dharmatala intersection and have warned of an indefinite hunger strike.
The Core Incident:
When the sacked teachers attempted to march towards the Vidhan Sabha with their demands, the police stopped them at Dharmatala. Blocked by police barricades, the protestors sat down on the road and announced an indefinite hunger strike until their demands are met. Their primary demands are the immediate publication of the OMR sheet mirror images and reinstatement to their former positions without having to sit for any new tests.
Allegations of Administrative Inaction:
The protesting teachers allege that their repeated attempts to communicate with the Chief Minister and the Education Minister have been ignored, with no concrete action being taken. According to them, the state’s Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, is responsible for the current situation. They further stated that corruption has led to qualified candidates losing their jobs. The protestors have made it clear that while they do not wish to break the law, they will be forced to resort to more significant agitation if their demands continue to be unmet.
This protest in Dharmatala highlights a deep-rooted crisis within the state’s education system. The future direction of this movement now depends on the administration’s response to the agitating teachers. Demanding justice, these teachers remain resolute and are awaiting a response from the authorities.
