West Bengal Health Scheme for Teachers: All Teachers to be Included? New Case Filed

West Bengal Health Scheme: A lawsuit has finally been filed in the Calcutta High Court demanding the inclusion of all levels of teachers under the West Bengal Health Scheme. The United Association has filed this case to bring all teachers and educational staff, from primary to higher secondary levels in the state, under this scheme. After a long-standing movement by teachers’ organizations to end this deprivation, the issue has finally reached the legal battleground.

Background of the Case and Legal Steps

Senior advocates of the state, Soumya Majumdar and Osman Gani Mallick, are representing the case as the main lawyers. This legal fight is being conducted under their leadership. This initiative has brought a ray of hope to thousands of teachers and school staff across the state.

History and Current Status of the West Bengal Health Scheme

The West Bengal Health Scheme was launched in 2008 during the Left Front government’s tenure. Initially, the scheme covered only government employees and teachers of government schools. The benefits of this scheme include:

• Cashless treatment facilities.
• Medical treatment is available not only within the state but also in hospitals in cities like Vellore and Bangalore.

Subsequently, the scheme was expanded to include teachers of government-aided colleges, university teachers, Panchayat workers, IAS/IFS officers, and even retired government employees and teachers.

Allegation of Discrimination Against Teachers

According to the Right to Education Act, there should be no discrimination in health services among teachers. Despite this, teachers at the primary and secondary levels have been deprived of the benefits of this scheme. However, their curriculum, responsibilities, qualifications, and pay structure are similar to those of government school teachers. The Shikshak Aikya Mancha has been campaigning for a long time to eliminate this disparity.

Next Steps of the Movement

The United Association has announced that their movement will continue alongside the legal battle. A protest program is planned for the upcoming October 13th. Following this, a deputation will be submitted to Nabanna (the state secretariat) and the education department. An appeal has been made to all teachers and school staff, regardless of their political affiliation, to join this movement as it is their rightful entitlement.

The legal team is optimistic that the case will be listed in court next week and anticipates a swift resolution.