Punjab's Grant-in-Aid College Teachers Pin Hopes on Supreme Court for Pension Relief

 Punjab's Grant-in-Aid College Teachers Pin Hopes on Supreme Court for Pension Relief

Next Hearing on March 24, 2025, as Supreme Court Seeks State Government’s Reply

Hoshiarpur/ March 11/Daljeet Ajnoha 

The retired college teachers of grant-in-aid institutions in Punjab, who have been struggling for their right to pension for decades, are now looking towards the Hon’ble Supreme Court for justice. In a recent development, the apex court has sought a response from the Chief Secretary of Punjab, directing the state government to submit its reply in the next hearing scheduled for March 24, 2025. This move has rekindled hope among retired teachers, who have long been awaiting financial security post-retirement.

The demand for pension has been a long-standing issue, with successive state governments offering only assurances but no concrete action. Many retired professors have passed away while waiting for their rightful dues, leaving the surviving ones to continue the struggle.

Prof. R.M. Bhalla, retired professor from DAV College, Hoshiarpur, and presently officiating Secretary, DAVCMC Hoshiarpur, expressed his concerns, stating,

"The struggle for pension has been ongoing for decades. Despite numerous appeals and discussions with the government, no substantial step has been taken. The Supreme Court’s intervention is now our last hope."

Prof. Sharanjit Saini, retired professor from DAV College of Education, Hoshiarpur, and presently Joint Secretary, DAVCMC Hoshiarpur, remarked,

"Retired teachers, who dedicated their lives to education, are now facing financial hardships. The state government must recognize our contribution and grant us the pension we rightfully deserve."

Prof. C.V. Arora, another retired professor from DAV College, Hoshiarpur, and currently a member of DAVCMC Hoshiarpur, added,

"It is disheartening that despite repeated assurances from the government, no concrete action has been taken. The Supreme Court’s notice to the Chief Secretary is a step in the right direction."

Prof. Dr. Gulwinder Kaur, retired professor from SS Gidha, also voiced her concern, stating,

"Many of our colleagues have passed away in the hope of receiving their pension. The government has failed us time and again. Now, we trust the judiciary to uphold justice and provide us with what we have rightfully earned."

Prof. Jagdish Sharma, retired professor from DAV College, Hoshiarpur, also emphasized the importance of pension for retired educators, saying,

"We have served the education sector for decades, shaping the future of generations. It is only fair that we receive financial security in our old age. We hope that the Supreme Court will finally bring justice to us."

The grant-in-aid college teachers in Punjab have been demanding a pension scheme on par with government employees, citing their years of service in shaping the future of students. Despite their repeated appeals, the state government has not implemented a structured pension policy for them.

With the Supreme Court stepping in and seeking a response from the Punjab government, all eyes are now on the upcoming hearing on March 24, 2025. Retired teachers and their associations remain hopeful that the judiciary will finally deliver the justice they have been seeking for decades.

The verdict in this case could set a significant precedent for educators across the country, ensuring that those who dedicate their lives to teaching receive the financial security they deserve in their post-retirement years.