Tanveer Hussain
Budgam, Jul 30: The Office of the Chief Education Officer, Budgam, has issued a strict directive barring unauthorized visits by media persons, NGOs, and private agencies to government schools across the district. The order cites repeated incidents of unsanctioned visits that have allegedly disrupted academic activities and compromised student privacy and institutional discipline.
In a circular dated July 30, 2025, a copy of which lies with the news agency Kashmir News Trust, all heads of institutions from Primary to Higher Secondary levels have been instructed to enforce a blanket ban on any such external presence unless written permission is obtained from the Chief Education Officer.
“No media personnel, individual or organization shall be allowed to conduct interviews, videography, photography, or surveys in any school without official sanction,” the circular emphasizes. It further instructs that if any such individual or agency attempts to approach a school, the matter should be reported to the office immediately.
The Chief Education Officer warned that any violation of this directive would be treated seriously and could result in disciplinary action under established norms. The directive underlines that even in the case of urgent or legitimate requirements, schools must seek formal permission before allowing any interaction with external parties.
Heads of institutions have been directed to prominently display the circular on school notice boards and ensure that all staff are informed of the new policy. Copies of the directive have also been forwarded to the Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Director of School Education Kashmir, and Cluster and Zonal Education Officers for necessary compliance. [KNT]
