Guest instructors of govt ITIs stage protest in Ganjam, seek employment or euthanasia

The Ganjam district guest instructors’ association on Monday launched an unconventional silent protest, which still continues, seeking permission for euthanasia from the Revenue Divisional Commissioner (RDC) as an expression of their distress over the prevailing employment situation. 

The demonstrators, who remained seated with tape over their mouths, said they were compelled to take this extreme step after concerns about the future of more than 400 families.

According to the association, a total of 647 guest instructors worked across various government ITIs for the past 20 years. They alleged that despite their long service, the recent recruitment process significantly reduced their workforce, creating deep financial uncertainty for many.

Instructors Level Concerns

The instructors stated that the department had appointed only 262 guest instructors instead of the existing 647, leaving more than 400 individuals without employment. They argued that such a decision pushed many families towards economic hardship, especially those entirely dependent on the ITI postings for their livelihood.

Arun Kumar Patra, one of the instructors participating in the protest, said the situation had left many of them distraught. “The department recently recruited 262 guest instructors instead of 647. Because of this, over 400 families are suffering from hunger and poverty. Our education means nothing now. We are concerned about how to manage family, expenses and everything else,” he said, expressing worry over the long-term impact on their children’s future.

He further said that the instructors were hardly left with any option. “If we are to be laid off and the future of our children is going to be affected, we believe euthanasia is our only resort,” he said.

The association submitted a written appeal to the RDC, urging intervention and reconsideration of the recruitment decision. 

The protesters stated that they would continue their agitation until their concerns were addressed.

Officials were yet to respond to their allegations and demands at the time of reporting.