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Protest for Teacher Recognition in Guwahati

Guwahati, Sept 5: On the occasion of Teacher’s Day celebrated nationwide, a significant number of tutors gathered for a hunger strike at Latasil playground in Guwahati, advocating for acknowledgment as teachers and respect for their profession.

The demonstration was organized by the Association of Provincialised Middle English and Lower Primary Tutors, with participants donning black badges to signify their protest.

Originally, the tutors intended to hold their protest outside Raj Bhavan, but after their request for permission was declined, they relocated to Latasil.

From their protest location, the tutors presented multiple demands to the state government, including a call for recognition as teachers rather than tutors and an increase in their salaries.

One tutor expressed frustration, stating, “We seek acknowledgment as teachers, not merely tutors. The government now insists we pass the TET. We have dedicated 20–30 years to this profession; when did this requirement come into effect?”

The protesters also claimed that the former education minister, who is now the Chief Minister, had promised on February 5, 2021, that families of deceased tutors would receive a gratuity of Rs 10 lakh.

“On Teacher’s Day, instead of being with our students, we find ourselves on the streets fighting for our rights. The Chief Minister assured us of a Rs 10 lakh gratuity in the event of a teacher's death, yet nothing has been delivered. We demand that gratuity,” another tutor stated.

The association has warned that if their requests are not addressed by October 10, they will escalate their protests.

“Our demonstration will only intensify if the government fails to meet our demands. We are ready to initiate a larger movement,” the tutor warned.