By TC News Desk
Agartala, 14th November 2024: The shortage of teachers in state schools has reached a critical point, igniting student protests as they rally against recent teacher transfers.
On Thursday, students from Churaibari 12th Standard School blocked the main road connecting Churaibari and Kadmatla, demanding the retention of their biology teacher, Prabir Das, who was transferred just before their upcoming exams.
The protest began around 11:30 a.m. after the students, dissatisfied with explanations provided by Headmistress Sabita Roy, decided to take to the streets. According to the students, Prabir Das was the only biology teacher in the school, and his sudden departure has left them concerned about their preparedness for exams. “Why was he transferred just before our exams?” questioned a student leader, articulating the worries of many who depend on Das’s guidance.
In response, Headmistress Sabita Roy clarified that Prabir Das is being sent on deputation to Anandabazar 12th Standard School, and Samir Das has been assigned to fill his position at Churaibari. However, the students remain adamant, stating that they specifically want Prabir Das, who has been instrumental in their academic progress, especially in biology.
The underlying issue is the acute shortage of teachers. The school, which has 780 students, operates with only 20 teachers, and lacks specialized subject teachers. “We have informed the department multiple times about this shortage, but no additional teachers have been provided yet,” said Roy.
The protest has also impacted the daily lives of locals, as the road blockade caused significant traffic disruption. Police from Churaibari Police Station arrived at the scene to restore order and urged the students to disperse peacefully.
