Sangrur, Dec 29 (NationPress) At a moment when the AAP, led by Arvind Kejriwal, is highlighting its educational framework in Delhi in anticipation of the Assembly elections, a computer teacher's fast-unto-death in the party-governed Punjab has now reached its eighth day. This protest is against the Bhagwant Mann administration's inability to fulfill their salary commitments.

Johnny Singhla's fast-unto-death commenced on December 22 and has now entered its eighth day. Meanwhile, a relay fast being observed by his fellow government computer teachers has extended into its 120th day, reflecting their discontent with the Punjab government's neglect of their demands regarding wage adjustments and parity.

Harpreet, an active protester near the site of Singhla's hunger strike, informed IANS, "Johnny sir's fast-unto-death began on December 22, and even after eight days, not a single official has approached to inquire about his condition."

The protesting educators, organized under the Computer Adhyapak Bhukh Hartal Sanghrash Committee, expressed frustration that while Punjab Cabinet ministers have visited the Khanauri border to converse with fasting farmer Union leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, there have been no attempts by the Mann government to address the grievances of computer teachers.

Another protesting educator, Gurpreet Siddhu, mentioned, "Before the Assembly elections, the ruling AAP pledged that under their governance, no one would need to protest or resort to extreme measures to have their legitimate demands acknowledged."

"Yet today, not only have our previous wage benefits been revoked, but our colleague has also been driven to fast-unto-death," Siddhu told IANS.

"The AAP government came into power on the promise that their treasury would not run dry like those of their predecessors, but they have failed to pay our dues," Siddhu added.

Rohit Kansal, another protesting teacher, commented, "Johnny sir has been compelled to take this drastic measure of fast-unto-death to pressure the government."

"He has expressed that he does not want his sacrifice to be in vain; he aims to become a martyr in the fight against the government," Kansal stated, criticizing the AAP government's hypocrisy regarding their promises to meet the demands of computer teachers, despite having held more than 40 meetings with ministers.

The demands put forth by the computer educators include the enforcement of the Sixth Pay Commission, an increase in dearness allowance, and assistance for the families of over 100 computer teachers who have passed away during their service.

Last month, the protesters organized a sit-in outside the Chief Minister's residence but relocated their demonstration following assurances from officials, including State Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema and Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains.