Bhubaneswar, Dec 10: The Odisha Junior Teachers’ Association on Monday intensified its protest by launching an indefinite sit-in at Lower PMG in Bhubaneswar.

The association stated that over 13,000 junior teachers across the state continue to work on a contractual basis, despite handling all subjects from Kindergarten to Class VIII in government primary schools. Members alleged that the state government has failed to acknowledge their contribution to the education system.

Earlier, on August 22, the state government had announced its decision to regularise junior teachers. However, four months have passed without the issuance of any official notification, sparking frustration and resentment among the teachers.

Protesting the delay, the association has now decided to stage an indefinite demonstration at Lower PMG until their demands are addressed.

Worth mentioning, The state-wide agitation by the Nikhila Odisha Mid-day Meal Cooks’ Association at Lower PMG has been suspended temporarily following two days of demonstrations over a seven-point charter of demands. Association president Jogendra Swain said the decision came after a meeting with School and Mass Education Department Secretary-cum-Commissioner N. Tirumala.

Meanwhile, primary school teachers protesting at the Gandhi Marg for five consecutive days also withdrew their agitation on Wednesday. The decision followed discussions with Ekamra MLA Babu Singh and former Union Minister Bishweshwar Tudu, who assured them that the government was positive about addressing their demands.