The All Kerala Lower Primary School Teacher (LPST) Rank Holders Association has brought its 13-day hunger strike to a close following productive discussions with Education Minister N Samsudheen. This development occurred during a meeting on Tuesday, August 11, where the government requested a period of 45 days to assess the demands of the rank holders.

Despite the cessation of the hunger strike, the association has indicated its intention to maintain a peaceful presence outside the State Secretariat. This ongoing demonstration will not involve any slogans or aggressive displays, as the group seeks to keep the focus on their demands.

The protests, which have persisted for over a month, center on requests for appointment letters based on the rank list published by the Kerala Public Service Commission in May 2025. This prolonged demonstration has garnered significant attention both from the public and political figures.

Optimism From Association Secretary

Secretary of the All Kerala LPST Rank Holders Association, S Valarmathi, who experienced health issues during the hunger strike and was hospitalised, has expressed cautious optimism regarding the resolution of their concerns. Valarmathi stated that they believe their issues will be addressed satisfactorily by September 24.

Reflecting on the discussions, Valarmathi revealed mixed feelings about past delays in government engagement. However, she voiced contentment with the outcome of the recent dialogue, emphasising that she was able to break her hunger strike after receiving water from the minister. Although she has concluded the hunger strike, the peaceful protest will continue as planned.

Highlights of the lengthy protest included creative forms of expression, such as symbolic acts where candidates resorted to eating grass outside the Secretariat to draw attention to their plight.

Government Response and Investigations

In support of the LPST rank holders, prominent political leaders from various parties have visited the protest site, demonstrating solidarity with the demonstrators. Notable figures include Shone George, the Vice President of BJP State, and Anoop Antony Joseph, the General Secretary of BJP State. Additionally, V K Sanoj, State Secretary of the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI), which is affiliated with the CPI (M), has also shown support.

On a broader note, the Kerala Home Department had previously ordered an extensive Crime Branch inquiry into allegations of irregularities related to examinations conducted by the Kerala Public Service Commission. This inquiry was set in motion due to concerns about the examination processes and the need for transparency and accountability.

A statement from the Keralam Police confirmed, “The Government has directed the Crime Branch to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the recent allegations regarding irregularities in the examinations conducted by the Kerala Public Service Commission. Considering the gravity of the allegations, it was decided to form a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by S Ajeetha Begum, IPS, Inspector General of Police, Economic Offence Wing Headquarters, Thiruvananthapuram.”

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