14/08/2025
JKTF Responds to Media Report; Calls for Clarity and Respect for Teachers’ Image
*Bandipora, 13 August 2025:* The Jammu & Kashmir Teachers Forum (JKTF) has taken note of a recent media report that, due to lack of clarity, has caused unnecessary confusion and concern among parents, students, and teachers.
General Secretary JKTF, Mr. Mir Bashir, while appreciating the role of the media in highlighting issues of public interest, stated that ambiguous reporting can inadvertently create panic and undermine the morale of the teaching community. _*“The officers and teachers across the district — and in Zone Hajin in particular — have been doing excellent work both inside and outside classrooms. Trade union bodies are equally committed to ensuring that government policies and programs are implemented in letter and spirit, while improving the quality of education in our government schools,”*_ said Mr. Bashir.
The JKTF leader urged that any such reports must clearly mention the specific cluster, area, or school complex where a complaint has been received. If any individual or parent has lodged a grievance at the complex, cluster, zonal, or CEO level, it should be explicitly stated to avoid generalising the issue to the entire district or zone.
Mr. Bashir further clarified that no meetings by any trade body or forum have taken place in Zone Hajin or anywhere in District Bandipora during school hours. _*“If there is substantial evidence to the contrary, it should be presented to the concerned authorities. As a responsible trade leader, I will personally demand legal action — even if it is against me,”*_ he added.
Praising the dedicated leadership of Chief Education Officer Bandipora, Dy CEO Dr. G.M. Pujju, ZEOs, committed cluster heads like Mehboob Sahib, heads of institutions, and the teaching fraternity, Mr. Bashir said: _*“While exceptions exist in every community and there is always room for improvement, it is equally important to acknowledge the valuable contributions of teachers, their respected status in society, and the image they hold in the hearts of their students.”*_
Mr. Bashir also appreciated the recent initiative launched by the Hon’ble Education Minister Ms. Sakeena Masood Itoo, which, through the dedicated efforts of the Worthy Secretary J&K School Education Department Shri Ram Niwas Sharma (IAS) and the Worthy Director School Education Kashmir Dr. G.N. Itoo, has introduced the "Parent-Teacher Meeting" drive across Jammu & Kashmir. He urged all parents to come forward, attend these meetings, and share their valuable suggestions for further improvement of the education5 system in the Union Territory.
The JKTF appeals to the media to keep the dignity and image of teachers in consideration while reporting, and to ensure that constructive criticism is precise, evidence-based, and aimed at genuine improvement.
Issued by:
Media Cell, Jammu & Kashmir Teachers Forum