Bandipora, April 23: In a poignant show of solidarity and condemnation, teachers across Bandipora district on Wednesday attended classes wearing black bands to protest the brutal killing of tourists in Pahalgam. The symbolic gesture was aimed at mourning the loss of innocent lives and denouncing the barbaric act of terror.
UT Spokesperson J&K EJAC and General Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir Teachers Forum (JKTF), Mir Bashir, said teachers began their day by observing two minutes of silence during morning assemblies and wore black bands throughout the day. “Teachers also sensitized students about the attack and collectively condemned the inhuman act, paying respects to the departed souls and praying for the bereaved families,” he said.
Mir added that the JKTF, in coordination with the Jammu and Kashmir Employees Joint Action Committee (J&K EJAC), has strongly condemned the attack, terming it a “barbaric and unforgivable crime against humanity.”
District Spokesperson of JKTF, Anjum Nisar, said nearly all government schools in Bandipora participated in the protest. “A civilized society will never tolerate such inhuman acts. JKTF stands firmly with the bereaved families. Today, we called on all our educators to wear black bands and observe two minutes of silence in solidarity with the victims,” he stated.
Calling the attack “a dark day in our history,” Mir Bashir said the massacre of peaceful guests who came to experience the beauty of Kashmir has left a deep scar on the collective conscience of the people. “Kashmiri hearts bleed with grief, and Kashmiriyat stands in unwavering solidarity with the families of the martyred,” he said.
He further demanded swift and exemplary justice. “Those behind this heinous act must be identified, prosecuted, and given a punishment that sets an example. Justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done.”
Mir also welcomed the unified voice of condemnation from all sections of society — including the business community, religious leaders, political representatives, and civil society — many of whom observed shutdowns and staged protests to express their outrage.
“This unified protest by educators underlines the vital role teachers and employees play in upholding humanity and peace,” he added. “Through these actions, we reaffirm our collective commitment to non-violence, justice, and communal harmony.”
