Hyderabad: Over 1,200 Hyderabad contract teachers appointed under DSC 2008 have remained unpaid for the past four months, triggering severe distress as they struggle to manage daily expenses, loans, and children’s school fees. Despite the end of Bathukamma and Dasara festivals, many now fear their salaries may not arrive even by Diwali.
The issue stems from the Telangana education department’s delay in issuing re-engagement orders. Teachers resumed duties from June 12, but without this order, salaries remain stalled. In some districts, teachers have not received a single rupee for eight months. Though the state had sanctioned the budget six months ago, the funds remain unused in STO accounts.
Teachers forced into debt as bills pile up
In February this year, the state appointed 1,225 contract Secondary Grade Teachers (SGTs) who had missed out in DSC 2008. They were assured a monthly salary of ₹31,040. As per procedure, these contracts terminate at the end of each academic year and require fresh re-engagement orders when schools reopen. However, even four months into the current academic year, the department has not issued these orders.
Teachers say they continue to teach without pay, with bills accumulating. Some received salaries for February to April in a few districts, but many have not been paid since February. Mandal officials have refused to process salary bills, citing the absence of re-engagement orders. Several teachers reported borrowing money to support their families, manage travel expenses of up to ₹10,000 per month, and pay school fees.
One teacher said, “Even for Dasara, I had to take a loan.” Many urged officials to act immediately and release pending payments.
Union demands immediate salary release
In a related development, the Telangana Social Welfare Residential Teachers Union (TSWRTU) demanded that the government clear pending salaries of regular and contract staff working in SC Gurukul institutions. In a statement on Sunday, the union said July to September salaries remain unpaid for part-time and outsourced employees, pushing them into financial hardship. They urged the government to act swiftly and prevent further distress.