Assam Government Faces Backlash Over Shiksha Setu App Implementation and Excessive Observance of Days, BDF Raises Concerns

Reported by: Ajit Das

Assam, India - September 15, 2023: The Assam government is under scrutiny following allegations by the Barak Democratic Front (BDF) regarding its education policies, specifically the implementation of the Shiksha Setu app and the excessive observance of various days in government schools. BDF members expressed their concerns at a press conference, accusing the government of disrupting the education system and paving the way for privatization.

BDF Chief Convenor Pradeep Dattaray criticized the government's approach, stating that the introduction of technology like the Shiksha Setu app required extensive experimentation before imposition. He emphasized the poor quality of the provided tabs, causing inconvenience for both teachers and students. Dattaray also highlighted the burden placed on teachers due to the excessive observance of days, leading to a significant disruption in academic activities. He accused the government of utilizing these events for political propaganda and questioned the rationale behind engaging student teachers in non-academic activities.

Jaideep Bhattacharya, BDF Media Cell Chief Convener, raised concerns about the new pension policy, leaving teachers who have served since 2005 without adequate pension benefits. He criticized the government's priorities, pointing out the disparity between pension policies for public representatives and teachers. BDF members demanded immediate discussions with teachers' organizations to address issues related to the Shiksha Setu app, exemption of student teachers from non-academic duties, and sincere efforts to solve problems in government schools' infrastructure.

The BDF warned of potential protest programs if their concerns were not addressed promptly, indicating growing tensions between the government and education advocates in Assam.