Schools, colleges reopen in Kashmir; witness low attendance

After remaining closed since the abrogation of Article 370, schools, colleges and universities reopened on Wednesday following the government's directive issued earlier.

Since morning, teachers and professors were seen going to schools and colleges but yet again a very thin attendance was witnessed in Srinagar. Those who came to schools were spotted without uniform and had come to inquire about the upcoming exams and assignments. 

It is important to mention that security forces who were airlifted, to control the situation, have been stationed in several colleges and higher secondary schools because of the lack of space to accommodate them. 

"We have suffered since last two months and education is something, which is difficult to regain. The government should figure out a way because we suffered in 2016 and once again, we are facing hardships," said a 12th standard student Aqib, who had come to submit his assignments at government-run SP higher secondary school in Srinagar. 

A meeting held on Monday by the J&K governor also took up the issue of education which has been badly hit since August 5.

 "Some of the major decisions taken in the past in the situation cum security review meetings include reopening of higher secondary schools; colleges and universities; restarting public transport.....monitoring attendance in government offices, etc," said a statement issued by the authorities. 

"Being a parent, I haven't sent my kids to school because once they are there, I wouldn't be in touch with them as mobile communication is still shut. What is someone pelts stones at their bus?" said a parent.

Last month, the government had directed schools to open but the move remained unsuccessful given the communication shutdown and uncertainty regarding the situation in the Himalayan state. 

The administration has asked education institutes not to charge any tuition fee or bus fee since August.