Police block teachers' march towards Jamuna demanding MPO inclusion

Law enforcers and teachers are currently in a standoff near the Kadom Fountain

Police have blocked a teachers' march towards the State Guest House Jamuna, the official residence of the chief advisor, demanding the inclusion of all recognised non-MPO educational institutions under the government's monthly payment scheme.

The teachers, who have been holding a sit-in for a 25th straight day outside the National Press Club, began their march towards Jamuna around 3pm on Monday.

Police, however, intercepted the procession near the Kadom Fountain. Police and teachers are currently in a standoff there.

The teachers are conducting the protest under the banner of an organisation called the “Non-MPO Educational Institutions’ Unity Council”, demanding that non-MPO educational institutions be listed for government pay and allowances, or MPO status.

Protest leader Munimul Haque, the organising coordinator of the council, told bdnews24.com: "Police are asking us to return to our sit-in location. We will remain here for now."

The non-MPO teachers, who have reportedly “not received salaries for a long time”, resumed their continuous sit-in protest outside the National Press Club on Nov 2.

Protest leader Munimul had previously told bdnews24.com, "During the previously holy month of Ramadan, we observed a 17-day continuous sit-in at the National Press Club. At that time, the education advisor and the secretary assured the teachers that MPO status would be granted. But that assurance never materialised.

“Meanwhile, the teachers and employees of non-MPO educational institutions, who are not receiving salaries and allowances, have their backs against the wall. We are facing financial difficulties and social humiliation due to lack of pay."

He added, "We call upon the government to stop the unfair game of MPO policies and circulars and grant MPO status to all recognised non-MPO educational institutions. Otherwise, we will achieve our demands through a continuous movement."

The teachers first began a sit-in demonstration on Feb 23, demanding MPO inclusion for all non-MPO educational institutions. After 17 days of protest, they held discussions with the education advisor and ministry officials on Mar 12.

Following the discussion, the council's Chief Coordinator Selim Mia announced at a media briefing that day that the education ministry had given assurances regarding MPO inclusion, and the protest was suspended. The teachers later resumed their sit-in on Nov 2.