Why Are ‘Untainted’ Teachers Persisting with Protests Despite New Recruitment Notifications?
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Synopsis
In a gripping twist, hundreds of ‘untainted’ teachers in Kolkata are resolute in their protests against new recruitment notifications by the WBSSC. Their fight for dignity and reinstatement highlights a complex battle over integrity versus bureaucratic negligence. This ongoing saga reveals the struggles faced by educators in the wake of controversial decisions.
Key Takeaways
- Protests continue despite new recruitment notifications.
- Teachers demand justice for their revoked appointments.
- Government's inaction raises concerns over integrity.
- Symbolic protests reflect the teachers' humiliation.
- Ongoing agitation highlights systemic issues in educational recruitment.
Kolkata, May 30 (NationPress) In spite of the West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) releasing notifications on Friday morning for new teacher recruitment in secondary and higher secondary schools, hundreds of “untainted” or “genuine” teachers -- whose appointments were revoked by the Supreme Court last month -- have pledged to persist with their protests.
These educators, although deemed “untainted” by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), find themselves in a precarious situation following the Supreme Court's decision to annul the entire list of 25,753 teaching and non-teaching appointments.
The court arrived at this conclusion after the state government failed to release a distinct list separating “untainted” appointees from those who allegedly obtained positions through dishonest means.
The protesting teachers argue that this inaction has jeopardized their livelihoods and self-respect.
“The essence of our protest is straightforward -- why must genuine teachers like us, who have dedicated years of service and have been validated by the CBI, be compelled to retake the exam? Moreover, why did the government not disclose the segregated list in a timely manner?” expressed a representative of Jogyo Shikshak-Shikshika Adhikar Mancha (Genuine Teachers’ Rights Forum), the coalition spearheading the movement.
The forum contends that the government’s hesitance to publish the list indicates a desire to protect the “tainted” rather than defend the innocent.
“This delay illustrates that the government prioritizes safeguarding those who purchased their jobs over protecting the rights of genuine teachers like us. We are left with no alternative but to continue our protests,” the representative asserted.
To further their cause, the forum plans to hold a “March to the State Secretariat” rally on Friday. Protesters intend to expose parts of their bodies as a symbolic gesture to convey their vulnerability and degradation.
“Our jobs and dignity have been taken from us. Therefore, as an act of symbolic protest, we will expose parts of our bodies during the rally to convey this reality,” stated Chinmay Mondal, convenor of the forum.
For weeks, these teachers have been demonstrating in the streets, demanding either reinstatement or at least exemption from the new recruitment process, citing their clean records and years of service.
Point of View
I believe the plight of the ‘untainted’ teachers sheds light on systemic issues in educational recruitment processes. While the need for integrity in hiring is paramount, the failure to protect deserving educators raises concerns about fairness and justice. Our coverage aims to bring to light the voices of those affected while encouraging a balanced discussion on educational reform.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the protests by the teachers?
The protests were triggered by the cancellation of appointments of 'untainted' teachers by the Supreme Court, following the government's failure to publish a segregated list of appointees.
What do the teachers want?
The teachers are demanding reinstatement and exemption from the new recruitment process, arguing their integrity and years of service should be recognized.
What is the stance of the government on the issue?
The government has issued new recruitment notifications, but the protesting teachers believe this ignores their claims and rights.
What is the significance of the 'March to the State Secretariat'?
The march is a demonstration of the teachers' determination to highlight their struggles and demand action from the government.
How are the teachers expressing their protest?
The teachers plan to expose parts of their bodies during the rally as a symbolic gesture to reflect their vulnerability and humiliation.
