Kohima, October 10 (MExN): The All Nagaland School Teachers’ Association (ANSTA) has decided not to participate in the proposed teachers’ mass hunger strike scheduled for October 17, citing the assurance given by Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio to consider the concerns of Pre-Right to Education (RTE) teachers seeking exemption from the Nagaland Teacher Eligibility Test (NTET).
In a statement issued by its Media Cell, ANSTA, an affiliate of the School Teachers’ Federation of India (STFI), said the decision followed a recent meeting between the Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) of Pre-RTE Teachers, Nagaland, and the Chief Minister.
During the meeting, the JCC submitted a representation seeking the Chief Minister’s intervention with the Government of India for exemption of teachers appointed before the implementation of the RTE Act, 2009, from the NTET.
The association stated that the Chief Minister had assured the committee that he would discuss the matter with his Council of Ministers and MLAs and remain in touch regarding further developments.
“Taking into consideration the assurance given by the Hon’ble Chief Minister, ANSTA has decided to repose its trust and confidence in the leadership of the State Government and allow the matter the opportunity to receive due consideration,” the statement said.
ANSTA clarified that its decision was based solely on the confidence it reposed in the Chief Minister and the State Government, and was not intended to undermine the objectives of STFI or diminish the federation’s efforts to safeguard teachers’ rights, dignity and welfare.
While expressing regard for STFI’s initiatives and collective efforts, the association said it hoped the federation would understand the circumstances prevailing in Nagaland and the reasons behind its decision.
ANSTA reiterated its commitment to the cause of teachers and expressed hope that the State Government’s assurance would translate into positive developments towards resolving the Pre-RTE teachers’ issue.
