For the past 15 days, highly educated unemployed teachers in the Andaman & Nicobar who don’t have jobs have been protesting without stopping. First, they protested together, and now they’re taking turns going on hunger strikes. These teachers are struggling with not having jobs and not knowing what’s next for them. They have been advocating for crucial changes in employment policies, particularly focusing on age relaxation for employment opportunities.
The primary teachers and graduate trained teachers demand centered around an age relaxation policy that they believe could significantly enhance their employment prospects and contribute to the improvement of education in the region. Despite their relentless efforts, they have yet to receive substantial attention from the authorities.
The Andaman Nicobar Teacher Association and Train Teacher Association are really pushing for what they want. They’re asking for fairness and for all the 380 jobs that haven’t been filled yet for Graduate Trained Teachers (GTT) to be given out. They also pressed for an extension of the deadline for filling Primary School Teacher (PST) posts by providing age relaxation.
During their protest, which included a relay hunger strike for the past five days, the teachers have faced numerous challenges, including health issues. Yesterday, two teachers had health problems and were immediately sent to GBPant Hospital, Port Blair, due to reports of high blood pressure during the relay hunger strike.
Despite meeting with the Chief Secretary, the teachers expressed their disappointment in not receiving concrete assurances. In response to some gratitude about the teachers, he suggested a meeting with the Lieutenant Governor (LG). However, they remain hopeful and committed to pursuing avenues for dialogue and resolution. While acknowledging success and assurance from authorities, specific details were not disclosed. Unemployed teachers stated that they would continue the relay hunger strike after the upcoming 2024 India general election.
The teachers reiterated the significance of their cause, not only for themselves but also for the future generations of the islands. They called for continued support from the community, urging individuals to stand in solidarity and actively participate in advocating for their rights.
As the protest temporarily suspends in light of the upcoming elections, the teachers emphasized that their fight is far from over. They vowed to return with renewed energy and determination to ensure the fulfillment of their demands.
In conclusion, the ongoing protest by unemployed teachers in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands serves as a reminder of the persistent challenges facing educators and the importance of collective action in advocating for meaningful change.
