Punjabi University Teachers' Front Condemns Malicious Propaganda Against Presidential Candidate
The Progressive Teachers' Front (PTF) at Punjabi University in Patiala has strongly condemned what it describes as malicious and baseless propaganda allegedly being spread by office-bearers of the Progressive Teachers Alliance (PTA) against its presidential candidate, Nishan Singh Deol, in the ongoing teachers' body elections.
Allegations of Frustration and Diversion Tactics
In a statement issued today, PTF convenor and co-convenors Harvinder Singh Dhaliwal, Rajinder Chandel, and Kewal Krishan asserted that the election campaign reflects deep-seated frustration within the opposition camp. They claimed that the PTA alliance, sensing its imminent defeat, has done little over the past two years except for writing letters, rather than addressing critical issues.
The PTF alleged that instead of focusing on pressing concerns faced by teachers at Punjabi University, the PTA has resorted to negative propaganda to divert attention from its own failures. This move, they argue, undermines the democratic process and hampers progress on unresolved academic and administrative matters.
Disciplinary Action and Counterclaims
It is noteworthy that Punjabi University has initiated disciplinary action against Nishan Singh Deol after finding him guilty of facilitating two PhD scholars to draw scholarships and salaries simultaneously from multiple institutions. However, the PTF has countered this by claiming that Deol has been consistently advocating for teachers' rights for an extended period.
The PTF further alleged that the university administration attempted to implicate Deol by reopening the same inquiry twice, even though earlier investigations did not establish any allegations against him. They view this as a targeted effort to tarnish his reputation ahead of the elections.
Call for Focus on Substantive Issues
Advising the opposition to concentrate on unresolved university teacher issues instead of indulging in personal attacks, the PTF highlighted that serious inquiries related to sexual harassment are pending against a couple of teachers but are not being taken to a logical conclusion. This, they argue, points to broader systemic failures that require immediate attention.
Candidate's Defiant Stance
Meanwhile, Nishan Singh Deol himself stated that he is not afraid of cases filed by the authorities or the propaganda being spread against him. He asserted that he has always fought for the rights of teachers and will continue to do so in the future, emphasizing his commitment to advocacy despite the challenges.
This controversy underscores the intense political dynamics within Punjabi University's academic community, as election tensions escalate and allegations fly from both sides.
