Northeast Desk, 1st August: The indefinite sit-in demonstration by the All Meghalaya SSA Non-Teaching Staffs Association (AMSSANTSA) continues for a second day at Malki Ground, Shillong. The protest, which started on July 31, reflects the staff’s rejection of the Meghalaya government’s 25% salary increase offer, with a steadfast demand for an 80% hike.
The dispute involves over 1,037 non-teaching staff under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) programme, whose salaries have remained unchanged since 2016. The staff argue that the proposed 25% increase is insufficient to cope with rising living costs.
The Meghalaya government’s recent offer of a 25% salary increase entails an additional annual expenditure of Rs 3.19 crore, raising the budget from Rs 12.78 crore to Rs 15.98 crore. However, AMSSANTSA members insist on an 80% raise plus a 5% annual increment.
The affected employees, including office personnel, MIS operators, DEOs, and accountants, work at various levels within the SSA programme. They assert that their demonstration is aimed at achieving fair compensation rather than opposing the government.
Despite a recent negotiation attempt with Commissioner & Secretary Vijay Mantri, no resolution has been reached. Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has reportedly scheduled an urgent meeting to address the issue.
Read More: Manipur: Assam Rifles Commemorates Freedom Fighter Haipou Jadonang on 119th Birth Anniversary