Punjab shuts down schools as tensions with Pakistan escalate
- The Punjab government has ordered the closure of all educational institutes due to increased tensions with Pakistan.
- All police leaves in Punjab have been canceled to ensure public safety amidst rising security concerns.
- Authorities are urging citizens to follow official advisories while additional control rooms have been established for assistance.
On May 9, 2025, the Punjab government in India ordered the closure of all educational institutions due to escalating tensions along the border with Pakistan. This decision affected schools, colleges, and universities across the state, following a series of incidents that raised security concerns. The closure comes amidst reports of attempts by Pakistani drones to infiltrate Indian territory, which resulted in blackouts in several border districts, including Ferozepur and Pathankot. To ensure public safety, all police leaves in the state were canceled, and authority was given to the Punjab Police to assist the Indian Army in the event of aggression. Additionally, the I.K. Gujral Punjab Technical University in Jalandhar announced the postponement of all end-semester examinations, with further announcements expected regarding the rescheduling. The control rooms for citizens to seek assistance or information were established by the Punjab government, highlighting the urgency of the situation. Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains emphasized the need for compliance with official advisories to ensure the safety of residents. The precautionary measures included a three-day closure of institutions to avoid any potential crises during this critical period. In Kerala, the state government responded to the escalating tensions by opening two control rooms to assist Malayalees living in affected areas. The Chief Minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan, reassured citizens about the measures taken to ensure their safety and urged them not to panic. The contact numbers provided were intended to keep the lines of communication open for those seeking information regarding their families and friends in the northern regions. Increased security measures were also implemented in Kerala given its strategic importance, particularly with numerous national organizations and military commands located within the state. The situation represents a significant escalation in tensions between India and Pakistan, reflecting historical disputes over borders and security. The political landscape in both nations continues to be fraught with diplomatic challenges. While citizens are urged to remain calm, the orders for closures and high alert state across multiple regions demonstrate the serious nature of the perceived threat and the ongoing commitment of the Indian government to protect its citizens amid growing concerns.