Teachers and non-teaching staff from schools across Mumbai have made a strong appeal to the state government. They are requesting an official paid day off following their election duty assignments. This demand comes from the gruelling experience of working extremely long hours, dealing with physical exhaustion, and facing the challenges of late-night travel.
The Gruelling Reality of Election Duty for Educators
The Maharashtra Progressive Teachers Association (MPTA) has formally raised this issue. They have sent a detailed representation to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, the State Election Commissioner, and the Education Minister. In their appeal, the association highlighted the severe strain placed on educational staff during elections.
Teachers are often assigned to polling stations located far from their homes. They are required to report at their designated booths as early as 5:00 AM. However, their responsibilities do not end when voting closes. The post-polling process, which includes vote counting and administrative formalities, frequently extends well past midnight.
From Polling Booth Back to Classroom Without a Break
This schedule creates an unsustainable situation for the staff. The MPTA pointed out that many individuals end up working continuously for nearly 30 to 35 hours without a proper break. Despite this marathon effort, they are still expected to report for their regular teaching and school duties the very next morning. This immediate transition leaves no room for recovery, impacting their health and professional performance.
Tanaji Kamble, the President of the MPTA, provided crucial context. He noted that in previous election cycles, it was customary for the government to declare a rest day for teachers deployed on poll duty. This practice acknowledged the intense nature of the work. However, this time, even the public holiday for Makar Sankranti is reportedly being treated as a working day, adding to their frustration.
Growing Support for the Teachers' Demand
The call for a paid rest day is gaining support from other educational bodies. Madhav Suryavanshi, the chief coordinator of the Shikshan Vikas Manch at the Yashwantrao Chavan Centre, has publicly backed the demand. This solidarity underscores that the concern is widespread among the educational community involved in the democratic process.
The core argument is one of basic welfare and fairness. School staff, while fulfilling their crucial civic duty, are pushed to their physical limits. Granting a single paid rest day would allow them to recuperate, ensuring they can return to their primary role of educating children safely and effectively. The ball is now in the government's court to address this legitimate grievance.
