Protest enters Day 24 as teachers of technical varsities seek pay revision

The protest being staged by teachers of Punjab’s technical universities has entered its 24th day, as they continue to demand the immediate implementation of revised pay scales.

Faculty members from Maharaja Ranjit Singh Punjab Technical University (MRSPTU) and other technical institutions across the state remain united in their stand against the delay in the implementation of the promised pay revisions. The teachers, who were assured of pay scale revisions as per the Seventh Pay Commission, have accused the state government and the Technical Education Department of deliberately stalling the process.

The protesters allege that despite multiple assurances, the government has failed to honour its commitments, leading to increasing frustration among the academic community. The Finance Minister and Technical Education Minister have not provided time for a meeting, despite repeated attempts, they add.

The protesting teachers argue that the issue is no longer about financial losses. “It has become a violation of our basic rights as academicians. The lack of engagement from the government has left us feeling disrespected and unheard,” one of the protesters said.

Amid ongoing delays, the faculty from all technical universities have announced plans to intensify their protest. They have declared a pen/chalk down strike, slated to begin next week, if their demands were not met.

Protesting teachers — Dr Amit Bhatia, Dr Bhupinder Dhot, Dr Dinesh and others from MRSPTU — expressed that they were feeling a growing sense of disillusionment.

“We have already waited for a long time to seek justice. The government has been making empty promises, and now it’s clear that they are just trying to delay the implementation. This is a direct blow to our morale and the respect we deserve as educators,” they added.

This escalation threatens to further disrupt academic operations across the state’s technical institutions.

The prolonged protest has disrupted classes, affecting thousands of students. As the strike continues to enter more challenging stages, students are increasingly worried about the future of their education. While many students have expressed support for the teachers’ cause, they also hope for a swift resolution to the situation.

With no solution in sight, there is a possibility that the protest will intensify in the coming days. The teachers’ union has made it clear that they are determined to continue their fight for their rights and will not back down until the revised pay scales are fully implemented.