Pro-govt teachers split. Will continue protest, say others
Times of India | 20 May 2025
123456 Kolkata: On the 13th day of teachers' protest outside Bikash Bhavan, the protesting teachers split among themselves and formed a new platform. At least 2,500 protesters stood by the chief minister, as stated in a press conference by education minister Bratya Basu on Monday. Reacting to a question from media, Basu said in Titagarh, "I will trust those who have written to me expressing their faith in the chief minister."The new organisation formed was named the West Bengal Untainted Teachers Association. It circulated a letter on social media, stating they have faith in the state.Mrinmoy Mandal, president of the association, said, "Our aim is to come out of court matters. There were some disagreements of views with the members of the existing protest platform. So, we have created a separate platform. We have faith in the state govt, but we have certain demands towards the state, too, which we have clarified in our letter."Chinmoy Mandal, a prominent face of the ongoing movement, said, "Initially, they inclined to BJP. Now they are aligned with the Trinamool Congress. We have clarified our stand that we are apolitical. The movement will continue until all get a clear observation of the state govt regarding the matter."On the other hand, reacting to the ongoing protest near Bikash Bhavan, Basu expressed his faith in the goodwill of the protesting teachers. "Laying siege outside Bikash Bhavan in this manner is not a productive action. Officials should be allowed to work to avoid contempt of court. It is not appropriate for their (protesting teachers) future either. They should have faith in the legal battle that we are fighting for them.I would like to request them to have confidence in the govt's legal efforts," he added.Basu also stated that the govt has not labelled anyone as ‘tainted' or ‘untainted'. SSC gave jobs to them. The govt cannot make any divisions. "We are submitting a review petition. Like us, you should also be responsible so that we can comply with the Supreme Court order."