The Directorate of Education on Sunday mandated the closure of morning and general shift schools in Delhi on January 22, 2024. The decision was aligned with the Services Department's directive for a half-day closure to enable participation in Ayodhya's Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha celebrations. All government and government-aided schools in general and morning shifts will remain closed, while evening shift schools will commence at 2:30 p.m.
In response to the forthcoming Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha celebrations in Ayodhya, the Directorate of Education under the Delhi Government has issued a directive for the closure of morning and general shift schools on January 22, 2024. This decision is in accordance with the Office Memorandum released by the Services Department of the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD), declaring a half-day closure for all Delhi Government establishments on the specified date.
The official order stated, "In accordance with the order issued by the Services Department of GNCTD declaring half-day closure (up to 2.30 pm) of all Delhi government establishments on January 22 to enable employees to participate in the celebrations of Ram Lalla 'Pran Pratishtha' being held at Ayodhya, all government schools running in general and morning shifts are ordered to remain closed on Monday," the DoE said.
"Private schools have been left confused with this order. There is chaos because we don't know what to do now. We were waiting for the DoE order. It is the DoE that announces vacations for private schools too, and we are governed by it. This is very disappointing," Acharya told PTI.
It further outlined that this closure applies exclusively to January 22, 2024 (Monday). However, schools running in the evening shift will commence at 2:30 p.m. on the same day and will conclude their activities following their usual timings but not later than 5:30 p.m.
This decision aimed to facilitate the participation of students, staff, and educators in the cultural and religious celebrations associated with the consecration of the Ram Lalla temple in Ayodhya. The closure emphasises the government's commitment to acknowledging and respecting the cultural diversity and religious sentiments of the community.
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