Agartala, July 07, 2025: In a strong show of discontent, students from two government high schools in the Sonamura subdivision blocked major roads on Monday demanding urgent action over teacher shortages and deteriorating school conditions.

Braving heavy rains, students of North Durlabhpur High School staged a blockade on the Sonamura–Rajnagar road. The agitation was triggered by the recent transfer of teachers, which, according to the students, would leave their school nearly non-functional. They urged the administration to intervene immediately to prevent further disruption of academic activities.

At the same time, students from Bejimara High School blocked the Sonamura–Belonia road, raising concerns about the near collapse of their institution. With only two teachers on the rolls—one reportedly absent most of the time—classes have almost come to a halt. Students also complained of the lack of basic infrastructure such as boundary walls, proper sanitation, and functioning toilets, particularly affecting female students.

The protest drew the attention of local education authorities. Kathalia Block School Inspector initially monitored the situation, followed by on-site visits from Sonamura School Inspector Brajalal Debbarma and Kathalia School Inspector Shambhu Charan Debbarma. Officials assured students that necessary steps would be taken to improve staffing levels and infrastructure.

Following these assurances, students agreed to withdraw the blockades but warned that they would resume protests if their demands were not addressed promptly.

The back-to-back demonstrations reflect growing unrest among students in rural areas, where educational institutions continue to struggle with chronic neglect. Monday’s protests serve as a wake-up call to the administration, reinforcing the urgency of ensuring equal and quality access to education for all.