SRINAGAR, MARCH 7: According to Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Baseer Ahmad Khan, in view of growing threat of Corona Virus, the class work in all government and private schools of Srinagar, Budgam, Baramulla and Bandipora districts will remain suspended upto primary level from Monday, March 9, 2020, till further orders.
The step has been taken as a precautionary measure.
Meanwhile, the Government today suspended the class work of Primary classes in both Government and private schools of twin districts of Jammu and Samba, till March 31, 2020.
An order issued by Director School Education, Jammu reads, “It is hereby ordered that there shall be no class work of Primary classes in both Government and Private Schools (JKBOSE, CBSE, ICSE etc.) of Jammu and Samba Districts, till 31st March, 2020. However, Teachers shall continue to attend the schools. In case of any examination in respect of Primary classes during this period, the same shall stand postponed and the schools shall notify fresh dates separately.”
Meanwhile, District Magistrate, Jammu has also ordered closure of schools upto primary level under section 144 of CrPC, till March 31, 2020, citing the situation arisen due to the threat posed by CoVID-19 Virus across the world.
The order stated that “Whereas the prevailing health situation (due to COVID-19) in several countries of the world has given rise to serious concerns in India as well; and whereas, COVID-19 has a pattern of transmission at a rapid rate in case prescribed preventive protocols, like avoiding mass gatherings etc., are not strictly followed; and Whereas, it is felt that children, particularly up to the Primary School level, should not be sent to schools to avoid mass gatherings; and whereas, section 144 of CrPC empowers the undersigned to issue certain directions/orders in urgent case of nuisances of apprehended danger when it is considered that such direction is likely to prevent danger to human life, health or safety. As such, for the reasons mentioned above, it is hereby ordered that all Government and Private schools up to the Primary level shall close with immediate effect.” The order further stated that ‘Administering of exams shall also not be a reason for making students up to primary level to attend the schools.’ This order shall remain in effect till 31st March, 2020 and any violation of this order shall invite action under Indian Penal Code, the order stated further.
