Srinagar, March 1: The Jammu and Kashmir government has ordered the closure of all educational institutions across the Valley for two days as a precautionary measure following widespread protests. The demonstrations erupted across the region in response to the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in joint U.S.-Israeli strikes.
Education Minister Sakina Itoo stated that the decision aims to ensure the safety of students during the ongoing unrest. Speaking to news agencies, the Minister declared that the closure applies to all schools, colleges, and universities.
The suspension of classes comes just as schools up to the 8th standard were scheduled to reopen on Monday after a winter break exceeding two months. Higher secondary classes from 9th to 12th had previously resumed academic activities on February 23 following a 70-day hiatus.
“We have decided to keep schools, colleges, and universities closed for two days,” Minister Itoo asserted. She further noted that the administration is monitoring the situation closely and a decision regarding the resumption of classes will be made only after a thorough assessment of the ground reality.
The Higher Education Department had recently seen the return of students to degree colleges on February 16 after a 52-day winter vacation. Officials maintained that the current step is necessary to maintain order and safeguard the youth.
