Teachers in Bhubaneswar Launch Indefinite Hunger Strike Demanding Cadre Rule Revisions

Protest by Teachers' Associations in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: In a significant move, the state branches of the Hindi Teachers’ Association and the Utkal Trained Sanskrit Teachers’ Association have initiated a protest, including an indefinite hunger strike, at Lower PMG Square starting Thursday. Their primary demand is the swift implementation of the newly proposed cadre rule for high school educators.

The associations claim that the education department had finalized the new cadre rule months ago, yet it remains unapproved, leaving the situation unresolved.

Despite numerous appeals for progress, the process has stalled. Currently, government regulations dictate that each high school in the state employs six teachers: two for arts, and one each for mathematics, science, Hindi, and Sanskrit.

Members from both associations pointed out that all six teachers possess similar qualifications, perform equivalent duties, and receive the same salary.

They contend that the conditions of service and promotional pathways should also be standardized. However, they allege that the outdated 1993 cadre rule has resulted in unequal treatment for Hindi and Sanskrit teachers.

While educators of other subjects enjoy wider promotional prospects, including opportunities to become headmasters across districts, language teachers encounter limitations and discriminatory practices in their career growth.

Following a meeting with the Education Secretary last November, where officials recognized these discrepancies, no substantial actions have been taken.

The associations further stressed that adopting the revised cadre rule would not create any additional financial strain on the government.

“After decades of waiting, we are left with no option but to protest peacefully. We will persist with our hunger strike until the government approves the new cadre rule,” stated the leaders of the associations.