Teacher Protest: In a fiery speech, Suman Biswas, a prominent leader of the Untainted Teacher Movement, vehemently criticized the School Service Commission (SSC) and the state government for the corruption in the 2016 teacher recruitment process. He, along with other qualified candidates, was forced to sit for a re-examination, a move he described as a tactic to cover up the deep-rooted corruption. This report details the key points of his speech and the future course of action for the movement.
A Scathing Attack on the System
Suman Biswas did not mince his words as he compared the SSC’s actions to a thief openly admitting to their crime. He expressed his frustration and dismay at being compelled to take an exam without any preparation, calling it a humiliating experience. He highlighted the fact that there has been no new teacher recruitment in West Bengal for the last 10 years, making the current situation even more critical for deserving candidates.
Key Demands and Allegations
Biswas’s speech brought several critical issues to the forefront:
- Justice for Meritorious Candidates: He passionately advocated for the thousands of meritorious candidates who have dedicated years to preparing for a teaching career. He demanded that all appointments be made strictly based on merit.
- Termination of Incompetent Teachers: Referencing a Supreme Court order, Biswas condemned the state government for protecting incompetent and unqualified teachers who, he alleged, act as “government cadres” and are destroying the state’s education system. He demanded their immediate termination and the return of their salaries with 12% interest, as mandated by the court.
- Disappointment with SSC Chairman: Biswas directly addressed the SSC Chairman, Siddharth Majumdar, urging him to release the list of qualified candidates. He expressed his profound disappointment, stating that the Chairman’s actions have been deceptive.
- Allegations of a New Conspiracy: Biswas suggested that the “moderately easy” question paper for the re-examination might be another ploy to conceal the underlying corruption and injustice.
The Path Forward: A Resolute Fight for Justice
Suman Biswas declared that the Untainted Teacher Movement will not back down. They plan to engage in democratic protests to seek retribution for the injustice meted out to them. He also announced their intention to approach the Supreme Court with the list of qualified candidates and demand a CBI inquiry to expose the extent of corruption in West Bengal’s education system. His concluding remarks, “we were and remain qualified, and will not back down,” resonated with the resolve of the entire movement.
