Pune: Primary Teachers Protest Against Government; Begin Exiting WhatsApp Groups and Plan Leave for Statewide March on 25th September

Pune, 20th September 2024: Unions of primary teachers across the state have taken a stand to protest against decisions made by the State School Education Department. In a move reflecting their non-cooperation, teachers have begun exiting WhatsApp groups that include Education Department officials.

During a meeting held in Pune by primary teachers’ union officials, it was decided to refuse cooperation with the administration until the state government reverses its decisions regarding collective recognition, contractual recruitment, and Aadhaar card-based teacher determination.

Starting from Tuesday (17th September), teachers began protesting by wearing black ribbons. On Wednesday (18th September), they started exiting the alleged administrative WhatsApp groups. On 25th September, all teachers plan to go on leave and march in every district.

Vijay Kombe, State President of the Maharashtra State Primary Teachers Committee, stated that Education Department officials have been asking teachers for various types of information through WhatsApp groups. However, teachers across the state are now exiting these groups as part of their agitation.

Reports indicate that unnecessary information is frequently requested by the administration through these groups. As technology advances rapidly, the government is hiring retired teachers instead of providing opportunities for younger candidates. Additionally, decisions made by the Education Department without considering the varying geographical conditions across the state are deemed unfair to students in rural areas.