KOLKATA: Almost three weeks after La Martiniere for Boys teacher Susmita Chakraborty was handed a suspension letter on Nov 8, reportedly over the posting of an emoji on an online post critical of the school, she resigned on Wednesday, ending her three-decade-long association with the institute, months before her retirement.
Chakraborty's resignation came despite a city court directing the institute not to take any action against her until the case was heard.
Confirming her resignation, La Martiniere Schools secretary Supriyo Dhar said, "She resigned on Nov 27 due to health issues. There is no dispute between Chakraborty and the school management."
About claims that Chakraborty was suspended over an emoji, which was dubbed "anti-management", Dhar said, "All other allegations are fake and baseless, and she tendered her resignation on her own choice. All her dues will be cleared."
But people close to Chakraborty claimed she was under pressure and did not want to lose her retirement benefits.
Chakraborty did not speak to TOI. But her lawyer Rachit Lakhmani, also a former student, said, "The teacher, on realising her son had posted that emoji, undid it and deleted her social media account. The school wants her to withdraw the case. Only if she does, will they clear her PF and gratuity. The teacher has asked me for advice, and I will see if the school is open to acting fairly. Things can still be worked out, but these coercive tactics will not work. Matters are pending in court."
The social media post was on the demolition of a 175-year-old heritage staircase at the school. After being handed the suspension letter, Chakraborty had moved the court, which granted an interim injunction on her suspension till Dec 19.
While a school official claimed Chakraborty had told the management about her intent to withdraw the legal case, those close to her said she would not until her full and final settlement was cleared.
Association of La Martiniere Alumni (ALMA) president Vishal Jhajharia issued a statement, saying, "The incorrect, illegal and mala fide actions of the school authorities have not only tarnished the dignity of an esteemed educator but also cast great indignity on the reputation of the school. ALMA understands the school authorities have coerced Mrs Chakraborty into resigning from her services, which ALMA believes is due to the relentless harassment and humiliation... ALMA condemns the illegal, arbitrary and reprehensible conduct of the non-academic authorities, who overstepped their boundaries in handling what is essentially a service-related matter of an academic, a reputed and respected teacher. ALMA demands immediate remedy of the wrong committed by the school authorities by reinstating Mrs Chakraborty and ensuring that henceforth no other teacher of La Martiniere faces such horrific humiliation."