Observation of holidays by educational institutions

The State Government of Assam notifies a holiday list and, as we understand, these are normally required to be followed by educational institutions of the State. Because of the lockdown due to COVID-19, schools, colleges, etc are closed in the State, at present.

Many educational institutions have started the online classes, in lieu of the classroom studies. However, it is observed that the educational institutions are not following the holiday list and other directives and instructions, as made public by the State Government. For example, on 20th of August, 2020, educational institutions were conducting online classes, even though it was a holiday under N.I. Act because of death anniversary of Srimanta Sankardev. Even banks, etc were closed on that day.

Similarly, there were instructions to reduce fees, and this too is NOT done by the educational institutions. Many educational institutions have gone to the extent of charging hostel lodging, fooding, etc charges although hostels are closed. This is worrisome, and competent authorities should take corrective action.

A Bhuyan,

Nagaon