They robbed me of a year after 31-yr service: Teacher

Kolkata: La Martiniere for Boys English teacher Susmita Chakraborty, who resigned on Wednesday, said she was robbed of one year of service after being with the institute for 31 years. She was scheduled to retire in Dec 2025."They (LMB authorities) robbed me of one year after I taught there (the school) for 31 years," assistant teacher Chakraborty told TOI on Thursday. The extremely popular and loved teacher was handed the suspension letter on Nov 8 after she posted an emoji in response to an online post by former students, who felt the covering up of the school's historic south steps was a mistake. Chakraborty had deactivated her social media account but restored it on Thursday to reconnect with her students. Her counsel said the case filed would not be withdrawn till she received all the terminal benefits.Chakraborty turned emotional as she recounted the support from students, including an alumnus who flew down from Australia to be next to her. "I am touched by their (students') affection. Their love cocooned me from the hurt," she said. "They (school) robbed me of an honourable farewell. People do so many horrible things in school and get away with it. Yet, I faced this situation though I did not steal or hit a boy. They could not find any fault with my teaching. The entire environment has turned toxic." A source said school officials were handing Chakraborty a terminal letter that forced her to put in her papers. She was not allowed to enter the premises to submit her resignation, he said.La Martiniere Schools secretary Supriyo Dhar brushed aside the allegations and maintained Chakraborty resigned on health grounds. "I spoke to her. She said she did not wish to continue and resigned. We will clear all her dues in due course," he said.Association of La Martiniere Alumni Association (ALMA) president Vishal Jhajharia said, "ALMA calls upon the authorities to rectify their actions and restore a nurturing academic environment."