Agartala, March 18: The plight of teachers working under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) and other contractual schemes took centre stage in the Tripura Legislative Assembly on Wednesday, with legislators pressing the government to take urgent steps toward regularising their services.
Raising the issue, Tipra Motha MLA Paul Dangshu highlighted that thousands of SSA teachers have been serving on a contractual basis for over two decades despite favourable High Court rulings. He noted that most of these teachers have since acquired the required qualifications under national education norms, including D.El.Ed training, yet continue to face job insecurity and limited benefits.
Dangshu criticised the state government’s decision to file a Special Leave Petition (SLP) in the Supreme Court, arguing that it has only prolonged uncertainty for the teachers. He urged the government to withdraw the petition, pointing out that the Centre funds 90 percent of SSA salaries, leaving the state with a relatively small financial burden. “Withdrawal of the SLP will pave the way for regularisation and restore dignity to thousands of teachers,” he said.
He also drew attention to the lack of social security measures, stating that over 200 SSA teachers have died in service without access to pension or family support schemes, leaving their families in distress.
Leader of the Opposition Jitendra Chaudhury supported the demand, describing it as a long-pending issue and an unfulfilled electoral promise. He cited Assam as an example where SSA teachers have been granted full benefits, asserting that Tripura could adopt a similar approach with sufficient political will.
Responding to the concerns, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha said the matter is currently sub judice in the Supreme Court. However, he assured the House that the government would consult the Law Department before making any further decisions.
The discussion has renewed hopes among thousands of contractual teachers seeking long-overdue recognition and job security.
