Agartala, March 18, 2026: Tripura legislators on Wednesday raised the long-pending demand for regularisation of teachers working under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) and other contractual arrangements highlighting their prolonged service without job security.

Tipra Motha MLA Paul Dangshu raised the issue, stating that SSA teachers continue to remain on contractual terms despite serving for over two decades and securing favourable judgments from the High Court. He noted that similar challenges are faced by other contractual educators, including vocational teachers, who continue to work under uncertain conditions.

Dangshu said that SSA teachers are now fully qualified under the Right to Education Act and relevant teacher education norms, having completed their D.El.Ed from recognised institutions. He emphasised that apart from teaching, they undertake multiple responsibilities such as booth-level duties, mid-day meal management, and overall school administration.

Urging the state government to withdraw its Special Leave Petition (SLP) from the Supreme Court of India, Dangshu argued that such a move would also ease the state’s financial burden. “If the SLP is withdrawn, the state will have to bear only 10 per cent of their salary, with the rest covered by the Centre,” he said.

He also highlighted the lack of welfare provisions, stating that over 200 teachers have died in service without pension benefits or a “die-in-harness” scheme for their families. Calling for immediate action, he urged the government to ensure structured and dignified pay for all categories of contractual teachers.

Leader of the Opposition Jitendra Chaudhury supported the demand, terming it an unfulfilled electoral promise. He pointed out that some states, including Assam, have extended full benefits to SSA teachers and said the issue could be resolved with political will. “If the Chief Minister assures and acts, the SLP can be withdrawn,” he added.

Responding to the concerns, Chief Minister Manik Saha said the matter is currently pending before the Supreme Court and is sub judice. He added that the government would consult the Law Department before taking any further steps.