Dhaka, July 18 (V7N) – Government primary school teachers staged a mass rally at the Central Shaheed Minar on Friday morning, demanding the implementation of their long-standing four-point charter of demands, including proper pay grade recognition.

The demonstration, organized by the Bangladesh Primary Teachers Association, began at 10:30 AM and drew hundreds of teachers from across the country.

Speakers at the rally criticized the Department of Primary Education for allegedly favoring only 45 head teachers who have filed a writ petition in court to receive Grade 10 status, while thousands of others continue to be neglected.

“The writ petition cannot be the only path to justice. We want a clear answer on when the 10th grade will be implemented for all head teachers, not just a few,” said one of the organizers.

The four main demands raised at the rally are:

  1. Implementation of 10th grade for all primary school head teachers, not just those involved in litigation.

  2. Payment of 11th grade salaries and allowances for assistant teachers.

  3. Issuance of a GO (government order) for 10th grade pay scale with retroactive effect from March 9, 2014.

  4. 100% promotion of senior teachers currently serving in acting roles, and automatic higher grades after 10 years of service and 16 years of age.

Teachers expressed frustration over delays in addressing their concerns and warned that failure to meet their “just and logical” demands would lead to a stronger nationwide movement in the coming days.

“We are the builders of the nation. Ignoring our rights is ignoring the future of Bangladesh,” said one protester.

The association has hinted at further programs if the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education fails to respond promptly.

END/RH/AJ