Haryana Government Boosts Guest Teachers' Allowance Amidst Protests

In a significant move, the Haryana government has increased the dearness allowance by 4% for the state's 12,000 guest teachers, bringing their benefits in line with regular government employees under the Guest Teacher Service Act-2019. This development follows recent clashes in Yamuna Nagar, where guest teachers faced lathi charges while demanding job regularizations.

Earlier, in October 2023, the government decided to provide full salaries to dependents of deceased guest teachers in the state's public schools until the age of 58. This decision, benefiting around 180 widows, addresses a longstanding demand from guest teachers who have been advocating for the implementation of the ex-gratia benefit.

Moreover, the Haryana government clarified that guest teachers' services would not be regularized at present, assuring them that their jobs would remain secure. Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, during the winter session of the legislative assembly, stated that guest teachers could continue their services until the retirement age of 58. The state government had already enacted legislation in 2019, guaranteeing employment for guest teachers.

The recent clash in Yamuna Nagar unfolded when the guest teachers, seeking permanency, attempted to protest outside the residence of Education Minister Kanwar Pal Gurjar. Police intervened, leading to a confrontation and lathi charge. Chief Minister Khattar had affirmed earlier that guest teachers could continue their services until the age of retirement, ensuring job security.

This move is part of the government's efforts to address the demands of guest teachers, providing financial benefits and job security, although the path to regularizing their services remains a topic of discussion and negotiation. The recent decision to enhance dearness allowance reflects the government's commitment to acknowledging the contribution of guest teachers in Haryana's education system.