IN PHOTOS: BMC school teachers protest against staffing shortages, pension issues

Teachers from Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) schools and BMC-aided institutions gathered outside the Education Officer's office at Triveni Sangam School on Friday. They protested against issues impacting their rights and the future of schoolchildren, demanding immediate action on long-standing concerns. Pics/ Ashish Raje; Reported by: Prasun Choudhari

Updated On: 2024-08-30 08:56 PM IST

Compiled by : Sanjana Deshpande

Teachers from BMC schools and BMC-aided institutions gathered outside the Education Officer's office at Triveni Sangam School on Friday.

The protesting teachers voiced their concerns over the severe shortage of staff in BMC-run and BMC-aided schools. They argued that the situation worsens during election periods, as many teachers are appointed as Booth Level Officers (BLOs), leaving classrooms without sufficient teaching staff.

The teachers expressed frustration over their dual responsibilities during elections, which pull them away from their primary duty of teaching. They emphasised that this affects the quality of education and disrupts students' learning experiences.

In addition to staffing concerns, the teachers demanded reforms in pension rights. They criticized the delays in addressing pension-related issues and called for the reinstatement of the old pension scheme, which they believe would better support retired BMC employees.

The protest also highlighted the impact of staff shortages on student safety. Teachers questioned how they could ensure the safety and education of students when they are already stretched thin due to additional election-related duties.

The protesting teachers urged the BMC and the state government to address their concerns without further delay. They called for a review of policies regarding teacher deployment during elections and demanded swift solutions to their pension and staffing issues.

The teachers, carrying placards and banners, shouted slogans calling for immediate intervention from the government. They demanded that the authorities take their grievances seriously and act to resolve the issues affecting both teachers and students.

As the protest continued, a few teacher representatives entered the office of the Education Officer to press for an urgent resolution to their concerns. Meanwhile, hundreds of teachers remained outside, continuing their protest.

The teachers' protest served as a plea for immediate government action to address the issues impacting BMC schools. They emphasized the need for a resolution that ensures the continuity of education and the safety of students in Mumbai's civic schools.

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