Deficit School Teachers Intensify Strike in Meghalaya

Teacher Strike Intensifies in Meghalaya

Deficit school teachers in Meghalaya are escalating their ongoing agitation, with the Khasi Jaintia Deficit School Teachers’ Association (KJDSTA) and the Garo Hills Deficit School Teachers’ and Employees’ Association (GHDSTEA) increasing their efforts to secure resolutions to long-standing grievances.

KJDSTA Continues Indefinite Strike

The KJDSTA has continued its indefinite strike for the second day. Boswell S Pala, KJDSTA president, rejected a recent communication from the Education Department, stating it did not address core issues. Teachers at protest sites expressed concern for students but highlighted the need to address unpaid Dearness Allowance arrears, currently at 53 percent.

GHDSTEA Announces Protest Rally

The Garo Hills Deficit School Teachers’ and Employees’ Association (GHDSTEA) announced a peaceful rally in Tura scheduled for November 16th. The rally will begin at Mission Compound playground and proceed through key locations in Tura before returning to the starting point.

Key Demands

• Release of revised Dearness Allowance, including pending 51 and 53 percent rates.
• Filling of all sanctioned vacant posts.
• Regular salary payment.
• Settlement of CPF and National Pension System benefits.
• Provincialisation of eligible employees with protection of pay and service benefits.
• Improvement of school infrastructure.

Financial Concerns

Teachers have reported difficulties accessing CPF funds, despite transfers to a central SBI account. Julius Lyngdoh, KJDSTA Jowai Zone president, stated that funds had not been disbursed to teachers. The association also expressed concern over a proposed Scheme 2026, alleging it contradicts the Provident Fund Act, 1969, and potentially aims to abolish the deficit system.

Government Response

According to The Shillong Times, KJDSTA members continued to fulfill their duties despite the ongoing issues. Both associations are urging Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and the Education Department to engage in immediate negotiations.

Source: The Shillong Times.