Shillong, Sep 23: Even as the All School Teachers of Meghalaya (FASTOM) has remained firm on its demand for upgradation of ad hoc teachers to deficit system and continued their protest, the government has maintained that it would take a decision only after examining suggestions of a review committee and stakeholders.
Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui has declined to provide assurance to the protesting ad hoc school teachers, stating that the government will thoroughly examine and review various suggestions regarding the proposal to streamline school categories, FASTOM vice-president S Jungai said after a meeting with the education minister here on Tuesday.
The education minister invited FASTOM leaders for talks after they launched an indefinite sit-in demonstration on Monday demanding immediate upgradation of ad hoc schools to deficit system.
The minister has conveyed to the delegation that the decision to upgrade ad hoc teachers to deficit system depends on the review committee and stakeholders’ input, Jungai said.
Acknowledging the services and contributions of ad hoc teachers to the state, the minister however said the government will study and review the suggestions of different associations, political parties and school management committees.
“This means that the department at present is working to reduce the numbers of categories of schools,” he stated.
He informed that minister has refused to give any assurance on whether the government will consider upgrading the ad hoc schools to deficit system or not as it would depend on the review committee and views of the different stakeholders.
Asked, Jungai said FASTOM is sticking to its demand for upgradation to the deficit system or, at the very least, the deficit pattern, which includes basic pay and dearness allowances (DA).
Jungai mentioned that if the government assures a pay scale with a specific implementation date, they would consider it a positive step.
“If the government can assure us that with effect from which date or January 1, that they will provide us with a pay scale, we will be happy with that also.”
Jungai further stated that the Chief Minister, who is also the Finance Minister, needs to take a decision on this matter, as it is not solely an education department issue.
On the outcome of the meeting, Jungai said the FASTOM will consult with its members at Malki and Garo Hills to decide on the future course of action.
“It depends on the decision of the majority of the teachers on whether to call off the agitation,” he added.
