Srinagar: The ongoing struggle of contractual lecturers in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) has intensified, as their long-standing demands for better salaries remain unaddressed, spotlighting the local administration’s apparent disregard for their plight.

According to Kashmir Media Service announcement issued on 16 August 2024, despite repeated appeals, these educators continue to receive salaries that barely cover basic living expenses, exacerbating economic hardships and fueling dissatisfaction across the academic community. The situation has driven some to abandon their professional field entirely; notably, two Ph.D. holders previously employed as lecturers are now selling dry fruits in Shopian, a stark testament to the desperate conditions faced by highly qualified professionals in the region.

Shazia Mir, one of the affected lecturers, expressed the demoralizing impact of their financial situation, stating, “Every month, we struggle to make ends meet. The meager salary is a clear indication of how little the authorities value our contribution to the education system. It’s demoralizing and makes us question our worth as educators.”

The disparity in pay between lecturers in the Kashmir Valley and those in the Ladakh region, where salaries are reportedly twice as high, has further highlighted feelings of discrimination and injustice within the teaching community. This issue compounds their grievances and fuels a growing resolve to protest against the administration’s indifference.

“If our demands are not met, we will have no option but to escalate our protest. We have been patient for too long, it is high time the administration recognizes our plight and takes concrete steps to ensure that we are paid fairly,” added Shafia, another lecturer gearing up for intensified demonstrations.

The inaction of the IIOJK administration not only underscores the ongoing crisis but also raises significant concerns about its commitment to addressing the legitimate needs of its citizens.