RMSA Teachers sit-in protest outside the Nagaland Civil Secretariat on September 11. (Morung Photo)
No positive outcome, agitation to continue
Morung Express News
Kohima | September 11
The much-anticipated 'tripartite' meeting between the Government officials, RMSA, and All Nagaland School Teachers Association (ANSTA) held today turned into a marathon sitting, lasting nearly seven hours.
Despite the lenghty deliberations, the outcome of the meeting left the teachers dissatisfied.
The RMSA teachers’ indefinite sit-protest entered its fourth day today, September 11, which was held outside the Nagaland Civil Secretariat, Kohima.
Speaking to The Morung Express following the meeting, RMSA spokesperson Renbemo L. Patton said the discussions began at 11 am and went on with intermittent breaks.
“The information they gave us was not at all satisfying. They are still hiding behind the excuse of a review petition in court, which has not even been accepted,” he said.
Patton reiterated on the High Court’s judgment on the implementation of scale of pay remains in force, and asserted that the government is bound to act.
“Even if the review petition is admitted, the chances of overturning the judgment doesn't exist. Sooner or later, they will have to implement it. Why not now? This is nothing but a delayed tactics. The government is taking us for a ride,” he stated.
The spokesperson recalled that the High Court’s ruling came in 2022 followed by the Supreme Court as well. “If the government was serious, they should have implemented the scale of pay since then,” he added.
The official from the government was represented by the Commissioner Secretary, and Samagra Mission Director, Deputy Mission Director, Joint Mission Director and officers from the accounts section.
During the meeting, the officials were said to have appealed to the teachers to call off their agitation with a written assurance that action would be taken once the review petition judgment is passed. This offer was rejected by the association.
“That is a lame excuse. Our demand is clear – implement the scale of pay. We cannot accept vague assurances. We are very firm on our stand and will intensify the agitation until our demands are met,” Patton said firmly.
He further informed that the RMSA Teachers’ Association will continue its ongoing protest at the Nagaland Civil Secretariat.
