Why Are Teachers Protesting at the Bengal Secretariat?
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Synopsis
On July 14, the West Bengal secretariat was on high alert as 'untainted' teachers marched in protest against job losses following a Supreme Court ruling. The situation escalated as security measures intensified, and the teachers voiced their demands for transparency in teacher appointments. Discover the unfolding events in this critical situation.
Key Takeaways
- Heavy security measures were implemented around the West Bengal secretariat during the protest.
- The rally was organized by the 'Jogyo Shikshak-Shikshika Adhikar Mancha'.
- Protesters are demanding transparency in teacher employment lists.
- The Supreme Court ruling affected over 25,000 school jobs.
- A significant cabinet meeting coincided with the protest, increasing tensions.
Kolkata, July 14 (NationPress) The West Bengal secretariat of Nabanna, located at Mandirtala in the Howrah district adjacent to Kolkata, was enveloped in a heavy security presence on Monday. This followed the 'march to state secretariat' rally organized by the 'untainted' teachers who faced job losses due to a Supreme Court ruling that annulled 25,753 school positions in the state.
The rally was initiated by the 'Jogyo Shikshak-Shikshika Adhikar Mancha (Untainted Teachers’ Rights Forum)', the leading organization advocating for these teachers.
Participants from this group gathered near Howrah station around noon before commencing their march towards the state secretariat. The police implemented extensive measures to prevent the demonstrators from approaching the secretariat.
Barricades were erected at all entry points leading to the state secretariat. Additionally, the roads connecting the secretariat to nearby railway stations were also secured.
To enhance surveillance, extra CCTV cameras were installed throughout the vicinity of the state secretariat. An increased number of police officers were dispatched both inside the secretariat and in surrounding areas to maintain order.
Coincidentally, a significant meeting of the West Bengal cabinet was scheduled in the afternoon at the state secretariat. Representatives from the forum expressed frustration, stating that neither the state government nor the West Bengal School Service Commission had responded to their request for the publication of segregated lists of 'untainted' and 'tainted' teachers.
“If the segregated lists had been published, we would not be enduring this hardship. Instead, the state government appears to be prioritizing the protection of the ‘tainted’ teachers. Thus, we felt compelled to organize this ‘march to the secretariat’ protest,” stated a representative from the forum.
On April 3, a Supreme Court panel, including then Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar, upheld a prior ruling from the Calcutta High Court that voided 25,753 school appointments made through the WBSSC.
The apex court observed that the panel had to be completely dismantled due to the authorities' inability to differentiate between 'tainted' and 'untainted' candidates.
In response, the state government and the WBSSC have filed review petitions with the Supreme Court, seeking a reconsideration of the order.
Point of View
The ongoing protests by the 'untainted' teachers in West Bengal highlight significant issues surrounding employment transparency and government accountability. As the situation unfolds, it is crucial to prioritize dialogue between the state authorities and the teachers to address their concerns effectively. NationPress stands by the principles of transparency and justice for all stakeholders involved.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the teachers' protest in Kolkata?
The protest was prompted by a Supreme Court ruling that annulled 25,753 school jobs in West Bengal, affecting many teachers who are now seeking clarity on their employment status.
Who organized the march to the state secretariat?
The march was organized by the 'Jogyo Shikshak-Shikshika Adhikar Mancha', an umbrella organization representing the rights of the 'untainted' teachers.
What security measures were taken during the protest?
A heavy security presence was implemented, including barricades at entry points and additional police personnel deployed in and around the state secretariat.
What are the teachers demanding?
The teachers are demanding the publication of segregated lists of 'untainted' and 'tainted' teachers to clarify their employment status.
What was the Supreme Court's ruling regarding the school jobs?
The Supreme Court upheld a ruling that annulled the school appointments made through the WBSSC, stating that the panel responsible failed to distinguish between 'tainted' and 'untainted' candidates.
