Teachers Strike : Schools across the state to remain closed on July 8 and 9; Teachers warn of increased agitation

In response to the state government's continued neglect of their longstanding demands, teachers across Maharashtra have called for a statewide school bandh on July 8 and 9. This decision is expected to affect all educational institutions across the state. Teachers’ unions have appealed to students and parents to take note and prepare accordingly.

At the core of the agitation is the unresolved issue of grant-in-aid. For several years, aided and partially aided schools have been awaiting the next phase of increased grants. Despite repeated assurances from the government, the issue remains unresolved.

Previously, from August 1, 2024, teachers and non-teaching staff held protests for 75 consecutive days across various districts. Although the government initially responded positively and announced an increase in grants during a state cabinet meeting on October 10, 2024, the official Government Resolution (GR) issued on October 14 did not include any such provision.

Since then, no concrete steps have been taken, and the promised grant enhancement has yet to be implemented. This inaction has led to renewed frustration among teachers’ unions, prompting a call for intensified agitation.

Thousands of teachers from across Maharashtra are expected to converge at Azad Maidan in Mumbai on July 8 and 9 for a large-scale protest. The Maharashtra State Principals’ Association, the United Principals’ Association, and several other teachers’ organizations have extended their full support to the movement.

With tensions escalating, the teachers have once again warned the state government of further intensified agitation if their demands continue to be ignored. The coming days are expected to witness strong demonstrations and mounting pressure on the authorities to act.