Meghalaya Ad Hoc Teachers Launch Indefinite Protest, Demand Upgradation to Deficit System

Hundreds of ad hoc teachers across Meghalaya, united under the Federation of All School Teachers of Meghalaya (FASTOM), began an indefinite protest, pressing for the upgradation of ad hoc schools and teachers to the deficit system.

The demonstration started with a rally through Shillong’s streets, followed by a sit-in at Malki Ground.

The rally, which began at Malki Point and wound through the city’s main roads, saw strong participation, particularly from teachers in the Garo Hills. At Malki Ground, the protesters continued their sit-in, voicing demands for better pay and working conditions. FASTOM Vice President Sanborn Jungai, addressing the media, emphasised that the protest was a response to the state government’s inaction on their long-standing demands.

“Over 8,000 ad hoc teachers are affected, and we will continue to raise our voices,” Jungai said. While turnout from Khasi and Jaintia Hills was lower than anticipated, he expressed gratitude for the robust support from Garo Hills teachers. The federation is demanding a 5% annual salary increment, an increase in the retirement age from 60 to 65, and salary parity with deficit school teachers. Currently, ad hoc teachers earn between ₹18,000 (lower primary) and ₹33,000 (higher secondary), with science and secondary teachers earning ₹31,000 and ₹29,000, respectively.

Jungai dismissed the government’s claim of insufficient funds, pointing to its recent proposal to cover salaries for staff in the three Autonomous District Councils. “It’s a matter of political will,” he asserted, calling for the upgradation of ad hoc schools to the deficit system, which would ensure higher salaries and better benefits. He also highlighted the stark pay disparity, noting that ad hoc teachers, even after 30 years of service, earn the same as newly recruited teachers with similar qualifications.

Criticising the State Education Commission for failing to recommend salary improvements, Jungai stressed the need for dignity and fairness in the teaching profession. FASTOM announced that protests will expand to Tura in the Garo Hills starting September 24, with the federation planning to reassess the situation every two days to determine further steps. Jungai assured that the protests would remain peaceful until their demands were met.

The Meghalaya Upper Primary School Teachers Association has voiced solidarity with FASTOM. General Secretary SO Lamare underscored the salary gap between ad hoc and deficit school teachers, despite both being classified as “private schools” by the government. Deficit schools benefit from consistent state funding, offering greater job security and better pay, while ad hoc schools rely on temporary grants, leaving teachers with lower salaries and uncertain futures.