Vocational teachers vow indefinite strike against 'systemic injustice' in Kashmir

Srinagar, March 29: The representatives of the J&K Vocational Teachers Welfare Association (VTWA) have decided to launch an indefinite strike from March 31 of 2025 to protest what they termed as systemic injustice.

In this regard, the members of VTWA on Friday held a meeting in Srinagar to finalise the programme.

As per a handout issued here, the meeting was held amidst growing tensions between Vocational Training Providers (VTPs) and the administration.

"The members unanimously pledge to strike against an unfair and unjust system plaguing vocational education in the Union Territory," the handout reads.

The Vocational trainers working under the Samagra Shiksha have voiced concerns over systemic failures, including the inefficiencies of the VTP model, inadequate salaries, and the lack of student certification and placement since the program's inception in 2016.

"During the meeting, members expressed frustration over the government’s inaction despite repeated appeals," the handout reads.

The members accused the VTPs of exploiting trainers and making profits from the project without delivering tangible results.

"A key point of discussion was the alleged coercive measures being taken by VTPs even before the commencement of the protest," the handout reads.

The association representatives claimed that VTPs were feeling threatened by the upcoming indefinite strike and have resorted to intimidation tactics to deter trainers from participating.

“The VTPs are already trying to silence us through harassment and threats,” the handout reads.
“This only strengthens our resolve to fight for our rights and the future of our students," it reads.

The trainers reiterated that their protest is a peaceful exercise of their constitutional rights, aimed at highlighting the plight of both educators and students caught in a failing vocational education framework.

They have called for the abolition of the VTP model, an immediate salary hike to match inflation.
"The meeting concluded with a collective oath to proceed with the indefinite strike until their grievances are addressed," the handout reads.

The association said they were not just fighting for themselves but for the thousands of students who have been denied certification and opportunities due to this broken system,” the handout reads.

The association said that authorities, including the Divisional Commissioner Jammu/Kashmir, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Srinagar, and the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO), Kothibagh, have already been formally notified about the protest, with the association ensuring full compliance with law and order protocols.

"Project Director, Samagra Shiksha, is yet to issue an official response to the escalating situation," the handout reads.