Guwahati, 13 March (HS): Over 60 polytechnic lecturers, recently terminated from service, continue their protest in Chachal, Guwahati. The Assam government had ended their contractual employment, leading to widespread anger among the affected educators.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma addressed the issue, explaining that 370 part-time lecturers were hired in 2017 on a per-class payment basis. Out of them, 133 secured permanent positions through formal recruitment, while 67 resigned. However, those who were removed challenged the decision in the Gauhati High Court, which ruled against regularizing contractual employees.

With new Polytechnic colleges opening in Hajo, Tingkhong, and Majuli, the CM proposed part-time employment for the affected lecturers, along with age relaxation in future recruitments. He also highlighted the dilemma of replacing newly hired staff to reinstate the terminated educators.

The lecturers, many of whom hold top academic ranks and postgraduate degrees, argue that their long-term service should be acknowledged. They were handed termination notices on March 10, leaving them uncertain about their future.

Meanwhile, the Directorate of Technical Education (DTE) clarified that part-time lecturers were initially hired temporarily in 2016, with permanent posts meant to be filled through the Assam Public Service Commission (APSC). Legal disputes initiated by the lecturers have delayed recruitment, even as the Assam Engineering Service Recruitment Board (AESRB) progresses with hiring 107 Assistant Professors and 137 Lecturers.

As tensions persist, the lecturers urge the government to reconsider its stance, fearing their contributions over the years will be disregarded.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash