Edu Depts prohbits student and teacher participation in political rallies

Edu Depts prohbits student and teacher participation in political rallies

KINS Desk 

Poonch Jan 25 (KINS): The School Education Department of Jammu and Kashmir has issued a circular prohibiting school authorities from allowing students and staff to participate in political programmes or rallies.

The directive comes amid reports of alleged directives to send students and teachers to a Tiranga Rally organized by the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) in the Pir Panjal valley’s Poonch district.

The circular instructs Chief Education Officers, Zonal Education Officers, and heads of institutions not to grant permission or issue directions for such participation.

The order a copy of which lies with news agency KINS states, “It is enjoined upon all officers, including Chief Education Officers, Zonal Education Officers, and heads of institutions, to ensure that no permission is granted or directions given to students or staff (including all categories of teachers) to participate in any political programme or rally organized by any political party or organization.”

It further mandates Chief Education Officers to strictly monitor compliance and report any deviations to the respective Director of School Education. The circular warns that violations will be viewed seriously and will invite strict legal action.

The issuance of the circular follows allegations that educational authorities in Poonch were asked to send students and teachers to an ABVP-organized rally. The ABVP is affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), sparking criticism from political parties and student organizations in the region.

Opposition parties have condemned the alleged directives, stating that education should remain apolitical. A spokesperson for a regional party said, “Forcing students and teachers to participate in political events undermines the sanctity of educational institutions.”

Student organizations have also expressed concern, emphasizing that schools should prioritize academic and developmental activities over political involvement. (KINS)