Kolkata, India: A fresh wave of protests erupted in Kolkata on Monday as terminated teachers and non-teaching staff gathered outside the West Bengal School Service Commission (SSC) office and near Derozio and Nivedita Bhawan buildings, demanding either immediate reinstatement or the release of a definitive list distinguishing genuine candidates from those allegedly appointed through irregular means.
Meeting with SSC Yields No Resolution
Despite a meeting between eight representatives of the aggrieved group and the SSC Chairperson in the evening, no concrete resolution was reached. According to the representatives, SSC officials stated that candidates who had progressed to the third round of counselling were considered “valid and genuine.” However, the assurance failed to pacify the protesters.
One teacher, speaking on condition of anonymity, accused the SSC of attempting to “divide and rule” in an effort to dilute the protest movement. “This is nothing but an attempt to break our unity. We are determined to continue until justice is served,” the teacher said.
Heightened Security Amid Escalating Tensions
The ongoing demonstration prompted the deployment of additional police personnel to manage the growing crowd and maintain law and order. Tensions escalated further after a late evening SSC statement to the media reiterated the commission’s intent to comply with Supreme Court directives and affirmed that the salaries of those who had rendered service would be disbursed as per the current system.
This statement, however, further agitated the protesters. A confrontation between police and demonstrators ensued, leading to a tense standoff.
Protesters Demand Reinstatement or Compensation
A protesting teacher demanded compensation of ₹2 crore if the government fails to reinstate them. “Let the Chief Minister and Education Minister make it official—either give our jobs back or compensate us adequately. We will not budge until a proper list is published,” the teacher asserted.
Gobindo Sarkar, another terminated teacher, described the agitation as a “genuine protest,” holding the state government accountable for their termination. Fellow protester Amit Mondal echoed the sentiment, accusing the administration of resorting to divisive tactics.
Promise of List Unfulfilled
It is worth noting that State Education Minister Bratya Basu had previously assured that the list separating genuine and tainted candidates would be released on April 21. However, as of this report, no such list has been published.
Solidarity from Medical Fraternity
Solidarity also poured in from the West Bengal Junior Doctors Forum, known for leading protests at RG Kar Medical College. They extended support by providing food and water to the demonstrators.
Protest to Continue Indefinitely
The protesting teachers have declared that their sit-in demonstration will continue indefinitely until their demands are met either through reinstatement or the official publication of the list of legitimate candidates.
