Guwahati, August 15 – Tensions flared on Independence Day in Chachal, Guwahati, as protesting teachers from the Jyoti Kendra Shiksha Karmi Santha were blocked by police while attempting to march to Khanapara to meet Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
The teachers, who have been on an indefinite strike since July 23, are demanding written assurances on job regularisation. Their peaceful demonstration turned chaotic when police intervened, resulting in three protesters being injured and taken to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH).
“We’ve met the Education Minister nearly seventy times, but every time, the issue is redirected to the Chief Minister. Yesterday in Nalbari, the CM gave another verbal assurance, but there’s still nothing in writing,” said Rejaul Islam, secretary of the protesting teachers’ association.
He stressed that the teachers should be in classrooms but are forced to protest under harsh conditions, lacking basic amenities like water and electricity.
Despite the confrontation, the teachers commemorated Independence Day by hoisting the national flag before beginning their march. Protesters say teachers from across Assam have joined the strike, showing a united front.
“We are not asking for favours. We want the promises made to us honoured,” Islam said, urging the Chief Minister or an authorised official to engage directly.
Authorities have called for dialogue, but no formal talks have been announced yet.