Guwahati, March 13: Over 60 lecturers in Assam’s Sachal area have entered the 24th day of their protest after the state government issued termination notices, ending their contractual employment in polytechnics and academic colleges. The move has sparked widespread outrage, with the affected lecturers accusing the government of betrayal after eight years of dedicated service.
The lecturers, many of whom are rank holders and postgraduates, have played a pivotal role in their students’ academic success, with many achieving over 84% in examinations. Despite their contributions, they were kept on contractual terms that prevented them from seeking alternative employment.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma addressed the issue, stating that the government’s hands were tied due to a Gauhati High Court ruling. The court had ruled that the government cannot regularize contractual employees. Sarma explained that out of 370 part-time employees appointed in 2017, 133 were hired through a structured recruitment process, while 67 resigned. The remaining employees challenged their removal in court, complicating the hiring process.
The Chief Minister added that the government is offering part-time positions to the affected lecturers and allowing them to compete for regular posts through the standard recruitment process, with age relaxation applied. However, the protesting lecturers fear that their years of service will go unrecognized.
The Directorate of Technical Education (DTE) clarified that the part-time lecturers were temporarily appointed in 2016 for newly established polytechnics, with permanent recruitment to be conducted through the Assam Public Service Commission (APSC). Legal challenges by the part-time lecturers have stalled the recruitment process, further complicating the situation.
As the protest continues, the lecturers are urging the government to reconsider its decision, emphasizing their contributions and the lack of job security despite years of service. With new polytechnic colleges under construction in Hajo, Tingkhong, and Majuli, the government’s next steps remain critical in resolving the ongoing crisis.
