Bengaluru: Feb 18: BJP State President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra has strongly criticized the Karnataka state government for its alleged neglect of the teachers who play a crucial role in shaping the future of children. He condemned the government’s treatment of guest teachers, labeling it an unforgivable crime. His comments came in the wake of the ongoing indefinite protest by the Karnataka State Government Primary and High School Guest Teachers' Association at Freedom Park in Bengaluru, where guest teachers are demanding fulfillment of various long-standing demands.
Vijayendra, accompanied by Legislative Council Opposition Leader Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, joined the protest to show solidarity with the teachers. He pointed out that the Congress government has failed to provide adequate funding to universities, despite blaming the previous BJP government for the lack of grants. He also criticized the government's approach towards guest teachers, stating that it should have acted more humanely in addressing their concerns. Vijayendra reiterated that the BJP government had previously raised the honorarium of guest teachers from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 7,500, and later to Rs. 10,000, recognizing their vital role in shaping the nation’s future.
The BJP leader stressed that the government must at least address the basic demands of the teachers, including granting maternity leave for pregnant female teachers, questioning how they could work without such essential provisions. He vowed to continue voicing their concerns to make the ruling party listen.
Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, who also expressed his support, agreed with the teachers' demand for a salary increase and promised to take action. He said he would write a letter to the Chief Minister, Education Minister, and Chief Secretary, and would also raise the issue in the Legislative Council. Additionally, he highlighted the issue of data entry operators who have not been paid for 7-8 months, drawing attention to the government's financial mismanagement.
