What Led to the Tragic Death of Subal Soren?
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Synopsis
On August 15, the West Bengal education movement lost a leading figure, Subal Soren. His untimely demise highlights the struggles faced by untainted teachers against job losses. This incident raises critical questions about state responsibility and the impact of judicial decisions on individuals' lives. Explore the profound implications of his passing.
Key Takeaways
- Subal Soren was a key figure advocating for untainted teachers in West Bengal.
- His death has sparked outrage and concern regarding state responsibilities.
- The Supreme Court's ruling significantly impacted over 25,000 teachers.
- Continuing protests highlight the plight of untainted educators.
- The need for separate lists of candidates remains a critical issue.
Kolkata, August 15 (NationPress) Subal Soren, a prominent figure in the protest by "untainted" teachers in West Bengal against job losses stemming from the Supreme Court's ruling in April, passed away on Friday.
Soren was a key participant in the ongoing sit-in demonstration near the West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) at Salt Lake in Kolkata for nearly two months.
A few days prior, Soren (35) fell ill at his home in Debra, located in the West Midnapore district, leading to his hospitalization.
As his health worsened, he was transferred to a facility near the Eastern Metropolitan Bypass in Kolkata earlier this week. His struggles came to an end on Friday afternoon as he succumbed in the same hospital.
Family members shared that despite his unwavering commitment to the movement, Soren was internally distressed over his job loss.
On April 3, a Supreme Court bench, including then Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar, affirmed a previous Calcutta High Court decision that annulled 25,753 school appointments made via the WBSSC.
The Apex Court noted that the entire panel had to be disbanded due to the authorities' inability to differentiate between "tainted" and "untainted" candidates.
Since then, both the state government and the WBSSC have submitted review petitions to the Supreme Court for reconsideration of the ruling.
Colleagues of Soren within the "untainted" teachers' group stated that his death was a direct consequence of the state government’s refusal to release separate lists distinguishing between tainted and untainted candidates.
"Overwhelmed by the dual pressures of the movement and the anxiety regarding his future, he ultimately left us on this Independence Day. This is not merely a death; it is a tragedy instigated by the state government," expressed Mehboob Mondal, another prominent leader in the movement.
Point of View
It is crucial to address the systemic issues faced by educators in West Bengal. The government must take immediate action to restore hope and ensure justice for those affected.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Subal Soren?
Subal Soren was a prominent teacher and leader in the protest movement against job losses in West Bengal.
What caused Subal Soren's death?
His death is attributed to the overwhelming stress from the ongoing protests and anxiety over job losses following a Supreme Court ruling.
What was the Supreme Court ruling about?
The Supreme Court upheld a decision that annulled over 25,000 school appointments made by the WBSSC, citing the inability to distinguish between 'tainted' and 'untainted' candidates.
What actions are being taken by the government?
The state government and the WBSSC have filed review petitions in the Supreme Court to reconsider the ruling.
How are other teachers responding to Soren's death?
Colleagues have expressed that his death reflects the harsh realities faced by untainted teachers and criticized the government's inaction.
