Primary Teachers’ Association Urged to End Protest; Promotions Will Not Be Affected: Naresh Chauhan

Shimla, May 10:
Naresh Chauhan, Principal Advisor (Media) to the Chief Minister, has appealed to the State Primary Teachers’ Association to call off their ongoing agitation. He assured them that the creation of a new directorate will have no impact on the promotion prospects of primary teachers. Only the administrative oversight has been assigned to the principal, he clarified, and promotional procedures will remain unaffected at all levels.

Chauhan emphasized that Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has already issued clear directives to the education department on this matter. In light of this assurance, he said, there is no reason for the association to continue its protest. He reiterated that the current state government is employee-friendly and has consistently taken decisions in the interest of government workers.

Highlighting the government’s commitment, Chauhan pointed out that one of the first decisions made by the Sukhu-led administration was the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) for over 1.36 lakh state employees—a stark contrast to the previous BJP government, which, he said, responded to OPS protests with police action.

Despite the central government subsequently slashing Himachal’s grants by ₹1,600 crore, imposing debt restrictions, and other limitations, the state government fulfilled its promise and reinstated OPS. Chauhan also noted that the government has released a 14% installment of dearness allowance within just two years in office.

He concluded by reaffirming that the state government remains firmly committed to protecting and promoting the interests of its employees in the future as well.