Atheist teacher to get his dues after six years

[rug]

Sanjay Salve says compulsory prayer is contrary to Article 28 (3) of the Constitution. The English teacher, who embraced Buddhism, is seen at his home in Nashik.

Mumbai, September 20, 2013, 17:18 IST

Six years after denying a higher pay scale to Nashik-based teacher Sanjay Salve, for refusing to fold hands during religious prayers, the school management has finally backed down.

The school on Friday informed the division bench of Bombay High Court that it is ready to pay dues of Mr. Salve from 2008, time since he is eligible for higher pay scale. The school has also agreed to let Mr. Salve stand, without folding his hands, during religious prayers.

The Hindu had reported the teacher’s six-year fight against the school management. The Savitribai Phule Secondary School in Nashik had withheld Mr. Salve’s increments as he refused to participate in the daily prayer. Mr. Salve’s argument is that he is an atheist and that compulsory prayer goes against the Constitution.

The court has asked the school management to draft consent terms within next 15 days and seek approval from Mr. Salve. “If both the parties are agreed on consent terms, then we can resolve the matter in the next hearing,” said Justice Abhay Oka.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/atheist-teacher-to-get-his-dues-after-six-years/article5150196.ece