The Arunachal Pradesh Teacher Educators Association (APTEA) has initiated an indefinite pen-down strike starting July 9, following the state government’s failure to provide a written assurance regarding the resolution of irregular salary payments. The educators have been facing irregular salary payments since the 2019-20 financial year and are seeking a permanent solution to ensure regular and timely payment through the fixation of monthly salaries. In May, the APTEA had served an ultimatum to the government, demanding a written assurance after the government had assured them that it would address their demands.
The educators had temporarily called off their protest after the government’s assurance but resumed the strike as no concrete action was taken. The APTEA had previously rejected temporary measures, insisting on a written assurance with a clear implementation timeline. According to the association, monthly salary fixation is the only permanent solution to the issue.
The government needs to establish a mechanism to find a long-term solution. These makeshift solutions will only lead to more uncertainty in the future.
