The Democratic Teachers Front (DTF), Punjab, announced a series of regional conventions and a humanitarian aid campaign while condemning what it termed as an “unjust war” imposed on Iran by the United States and Israel.
The decision was taken during a state level meeting held at Desh Bhagat Yadgar Hall in Jalandhar under the leadership of DTF state president Vikram Dev Singh. The organisation strongly criticised the growing militarism of global powers and their direct or indirect attacks on developing nations, raising particular concern over the killing of women, children and students.
DTF general secretary Mahinder Kaurianwali, finance secretary Ashwani Awasthi and state vice presidents Rajiv Kumar Barnala, Gurpiar Singh Kotli, Beant Singh Phullewala, Jagpal Singh Bangi and Harjinder Singh Wadala Bangar described the February 28 missile strike on a girls’ elementary school in Minab, Southern Iran, as “heart-wrenching”. The attack reportedly claimed the lives of nearly 168 children and 14 teachers.
Calling the incident deeply painful, the organisation passed a condolence resolution and expressed solidarity with the bereaved families.
As part of its response, the DTF state secretariat decided to organise regional conventions on June 2 in Jalandhar, covering Majha and Doaba zones and on June 7 in Bathinda for the Malwa region. These conventions aim to mobilise opinion against the conflict.
The organisation also announced a humanitarian aid drive for the families of the victims, stating that it seeks to uphold its tradition of raising voice for those affected by war. The DTF appealed to teachers and democratic organisations to contribute to the humanitarian aid initiative.
