ACS Rajesh Khullar Halts 'Fast Unto Death' Of Work Education Instructors, Addressing Their Demands

Panchkula: Work Education Instructors, part of the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan) initiative, have been engaged in a determined protest within the premises of Shiksha Sadan, Sector-5, Panchkula, in the state of Haryana. Since August 2014, these instructors have been rendering their expertise in disciplines such as Music, Singing, Tabla, Fine Art, Drama, and Dance across various government schools. The crux of their ongoing agitation revolves around their exclusion from the bylaws formulated by the council in 2013.

Presently, the protest has entered its 47th day, with six days witnessing a 'fast unto death' undertaken by these dedicated educators. Seeking a redressal of their grievances, the Work Education Instructors have embarked on a peaceful demonstration near the residence of the Chief Minister. Addressing their concerns, Mr. Rajesh Khullar, the Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) of school education, engaged in a dialogue with the fasting instructors, offering assurances of swift resolution.

Central to their demands is parity with their peers within the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan framework. Specifically, they are advocating for the incorporation of their roles under the service bylaws established in 2013, along with equitable grade pay akin to other employees. This call has gained momentum as the department has acknowledged its requisites. A significant development occurred when Mr. Rajesh Khullar intervened, concluding the hunger strike of four fellow instructors by providing them with nourishing fruit juice.

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While the 'Fast unto Death' phase has concluded, the protestors remain steadfast in their resolve to sustain the dharna. Their optimism remains unwavering as they anticipate a favorable response from the department in fulfilling their demands at the earliest opportunity. Rajat Bhatt, the President of the instructors' association, expressed the sentiment that although the life-threatening fasting has ceased, the demonstration will persist, fueled by the aspiration for the prompt realization of their rightful aspirations.