Odisha primary teachers end protest after 11 days

Odisha:Over 1.3 lakh primary school teachers in Odisha ended their 11-day-old agitation on Monday after discussions with the state government. Over 1.30 lakh primary school teachers have been protesting since September 8 demanding abolition of the contractual appointment system, increase in grade pay and restoration of the old pension scheme.

‘The state government has asked for time to consider our demands. Charulata Mohapatra, general secretary of All Utkal Primary Teachers Federation, said, “Having confidence in the government’s assurance, we have decided to withdraw our agitation.” However, a section of teachers has opposed the decision of the federation.

‘The state government has not fulfilled any of our demands. Many teachers organizations have suggested to continue the protest. Suresh Chandra Pradha, convenor of Western Odisha Primary Teachers Association, said, ‘However, the general secretary of the federation himself announced the withdrawal of the strike.’