Ahmedabad DEO fines Diwan Ballubhai School over teachers’ strike

At Diwan Ballubhai Kankaria campus, Paldi branch, teachers of both English and Gujarati medium went on strike on Monday, demanding a lawful salary increase. However, the protest became controversial when teaching work was halted and students were kept sitting in classrooms during the strike. Following this, the Ahmedabad City District Education Officer (DEO) issued a notice to the school seeking an explanation.

During the strike, classes were halted, and students remained in classrooms. Those who had arrived by bicycle returned home, but those who came by school van or rickshaw had to stay back, leading to protests from parents. The strike continued until evening and was called off after assurances that a decision would be taken by the 20th of the month.

Teachers have alleged that the trust has not granted salary increases in a fair manner. Despite repeated representations, no general hike has been given – some teachers have received significant raises, some minimal, and others none at all. Claiming this process was discriminatory, teachers protested by going on strike.

The Ahmedabad City DEO had served a show-cause notice to the principal and management of the Diwan Ballubhai Kankaria Primary School, instructing them to appear in person and explain. The Kankaria and Paldi campuses together run four primary schools with around 250 staff members, including teachers and support staff.

Since the school failed to inform the DEO’s office about the incident, the DEO has also imposed a fine of ₹10,000. Additionally, all striking teachers will have one day’s salary deducted, and the school has been directed to submit a report on the action taken.