Faculty at Gauhati University Protests for Pension Scheme Reversal

GUWAHATI: In a show of unity and determination, professors and non-teaching staff at Gauhati University (GU) came together on Thursday to voice their discontent with the National Pension Scheme (NPS). Organized by the GU Teacher’s Association, the protest called for the immediate cancellation of the NPS, citing its heavy financial burden on university employees.

The demand on the forefront was the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), which the protestors argued would be more favorable to their financial well-being. With unwavering resolve, they pledged to continue their protest until their demands were met.

This demonstration was notable not only for its scale but also for its inclusivity, drawing participants from various university departments, including professors and non-teaching staff.

Notably, the impetus for this protest traces back to September 5 when Assam's Education Minister, Ranoj Pegu, responded to the ongoing agitation by teachers. Minister Pegu made a bold call to both the Central and State Governments, urging them to abandon the NPS and revert to the previous pension scheme.

Emphasizing the need for open dialogue to address the concerns of the protesting faculty members, the minister expressed deep-seated apprehensions about individuals becoming deeply entrenched in the movement. He cautioned against the potential for heightened agitation among the participants, underscoring the importance of a peaceful resolution.

Minister Pegu also ventured into the realm of politics, hinting at potential political influences in the teachers' movement. He responded to perceived threats to the ruling BJP party, attributing them to ego-driven motivations rather than genuine concerns for the well-being of the university staff.

The faculty members of Gauhati University have embarked on a resolute protest against the National Pension Scheme (NPS), seeking the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS). Assam's Education Minister, Ranoj Pegu, has acknowledged their demands and urged both state and central authorities to engage in dialogue. Yet, the minister also expressed concerns about the movement becoming overly charged and hinted at political influences, adding an intriguing layer to this pension reform struggle.

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