JAIPUR: The tragic incidents in the schools in Rajasthan's Jhalawar and Jaisalmer have prompted the state government to lock and seal dilapidated buildings and empower teachers to declare holidays if the condition of the educational premises poses a risk.
State Education Minister Madan Dilawar has issued strict instructions to ensure the safety of students and staff, particularly during the ongoing monsoon season.
In a firm directive, Minister Dilawar has instructed that all dilapidated school buildings must be locked and sealed immediately.
He emphasised that the safety of children is non-negotiable and that no classes should be held in unsafe structures.
Rooms showing signs of damage should be marked with red and kept locked to prevent entry.
"Teachers should not wait for official orders when children's safety is at stake. They have full authority to act immediately, " the minister said.
With several villages witnessing floods, overflowing rivers, and waterlogged school premises, the government has also directed District Collectors to declare school holidays wherever needed. Many districts have already announced such holidays under this provision.
"Students should not be allowed back into damaged school buildings. If any structure remains unsafe post-rain, alternate arrangements must be made, " he said.