Bhubaneswar, Dec 9: Primary school teachers across Odisha have continued their strike for the fifth consecutive day, demanding written assurances from the state government on their long-pending service and pay-related issues. Despite verbal commitments from officials during discussions held on December 6, the teachers’ unions have refused to call off their protest until formal documentation is provided, agitating teachers said on Tuesday.

The agitation has brought classroom teaching to a halt in schools across the state, leaving students and parents anxious as examinations approach. Parents expressed concern over the disruption, noting that children are unable to prepare adequately for upcoming tests.

Teachers, under the banner of the Primary Teachers’ Association, have raised slogans demanding fulfillment of their “just demands.” Their key demand is an increase in grade pay from Rs 2,200 to Rs 4,200, which would raise the basic salary from Rs 23,000 to Rs 34,500. Teachers with 17–18 years of service currently earn around Rs 50,000 under the existing structure. The unions are also pressing for the regularisation of nearly 13,000 contractual teachers.

This is not the first time such demands have been raised. Similar agitations were staged in 2017, 2022, and 2023, with the government offering assurances but failing to deliver on them. Teachers recall that even written promises made in 2017 were not implemented.

Parents and school administrators have voiced concern over the prolonged absence of teachers. “With exams ahead, children are worried about how they will cope,” said Vijay Kumar Raut, a parent. Headmistress Saramani Pramanik added that the disruption has severely affected academic schedules.

The Winter Session of the Odisha Assembly concluded today, but the government’s assurances have not convinced the striking teachers. They remain firm that they will not vacate the protest site until written commitments are issued.