Agartala — Despite a clear directive from the State Education Department ordering the closure of all schools and Anganwadi centres from January 6 to January 10 due to severe cold conditions, reports have surfaced that several institutions in Tripura continued to function, exposing young children to harsh winter weather.
Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha had publicly announced the decision through social media, urging strict compliance in the interest of students’ safety. However, allegations indicate that some school authorities ignored the order, conducting regular classes and even holding examinations during the closure period.
A particularly concerning incident was reported at Vidyasagar Pathshala Pre-Primary School in Chakmaghat Mogbari under Teliamura subdivision of the 29 Krishnapur constituency. According to complaints from parents, the school carried on with daily lessons and organised examinations for pre-primary students, openly defying the government’s directive.
When journalists visited the institution, the headmaster, Sushil Choudhury, reportedly attempted to minimise the issue with emotional appeals. However, upon realising the presence of media personnel, the examination in progress was abruptly stopped and students were sent home, raising further questions about the school’s intentions and conduct.
Several children told reporters that attending school in the biting cold and sitting for extended periods had been extremely uncomfortable and difficult. Parents expressed strong anger over what they described as a blatant disregard for the health, safety, and well-being of young children, especially during extreme weather conditions.
The incident has triggered widespread concern, with parents and local residents demanding immediate disciplinary action against the school authorities involved. They have also called for stricter monitoring and enforcement of government orders to ensure that no institution violates directives meant to protect students.
The focus has now shifted to the Education Department and district administration, with the public keenly awaiting concrete action against violators. Many have stressed that failure to act decisively could encourage further disregard of official instructions, potentially putting children at risk during future emergencies.
