J&K vocational trainers continue their protest over job security and service conditions as JKTF leader Tahir Sofi seeks government intervention. (Images: Dymamite News)
Srinagar: The protest by vocational trainers in Jammu and Kashmir has entered a crucial phase, with Jammu Kashmir Teachers Forum (JKTF) General Secretary and EJAC Vice President Tahir Sofi urging the administration to urgently address their concerns over job security and service conditions.
The vocational trainers have reportedly been protesting for nearly two weeks, seeking clarity over their employment status and a comprehensive policy governing their services. Sofi has appealed to CM Omar Abdullah and Education Minister Sakeena Itoo to intervene and find a time-bound solution to the issue.
Sofi questioned the prolonged uncertainty surrounding the future of vocational trainers and said the situation required greater attention from the government. He stressed that teachers play a central role in shaping the future of students and should not themselves be left uncertain about their jobs and livelihoods. He called upon the government to engage with representatives of the protesting trainers and work towards a permanent resolution. JKTF leader also urged the authorities to respond to the demands instead of allowing the agitation to continue indefinitely.
According to Sofi, vocational trainers are seeking job security and clearly defined service conditions. He called for a comprehensive service policy that addresses their concerns and provides greater clarity regarding their professional future. He argued that prolonged uncertainty among teachers could have wider implications for the education system, particularly when educators are expected to focus on the academic and professional development of students.
Sofi also expressed concern over the recent death of a vocational trainer, which he said was allegedly linked to police torture. He called for appropriate action by the authorities and expressed sympathy with the deceased trainer’s family.
At the same time, Sofi clarified that any connection between the death and the ongoing protest could only be established by the concerned medical authorities, stressing the need for an appropriate assessment of the circumstances.
The JKTF leader said teachers should receive greater institutional support and recognition because of their contribution to society. He maintained that education should remain a priority for the administration and that teachers need to work in an environment where their professional and financial concerns are addressed. Sofi also called for dialogue between the government and employee representatives, saying negotiations could help prevent the ongoing agitation from continuing indefinitely.
Sofi also renewed his demand for restoration of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), arguing that teachers and other employees should have adequate social security after retirement. He said employees who spend decades serving society deserve financial dignity and security in their post-retirement years. According to Sofi, pension policy should be viewed from the perspective of social welfare and long-term security for government employees.
Sofi appealed to CM Omar Abdullah and Education Minister Sakeena Itoo to initiate consultations with representatives of vocational trainers and work towards a permanent settlement. He said resolving the concerns of teachers would not only address the immediate protest, but also contribute to a more stable education system in Jammu and Kashmir.
The JKTF leader expressed hope that the government would take note of the grievances and initiate steps to address the concerns of vocational trainers, teachers and other employees through dialogue and constructive engagement.
